Evaluating integrative care for patients undergoing surgery for thoracic cancers

Pioneering Pre- and Post-Operative Integrative Care to Improve Thoracic Cancer Quality of Care - The Thoracic Peri-Operative Integrative Surgical Care Evaluation (POISE) Trial - Stage III

Phase 3 Interventional Ottawa Hospital Research Institute · NCT04871412

This study is testing whether adding natural health products like Vitamin D3, probiotics, and whey protein can help improve recovery and quality of life for patients having surgery for lung, gastric, and esophageal cancers.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorOttawa Hospital Research Institute Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations2 sites (Ottawa, Ontario and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04871412 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to improve outcomes for patients undergoing curative surgery for lung, gastric, and esophageal cancers by integrating complementary health products into their care. The study will assess the impact of various natural health products, including Vitamin D3, probiotics, and whey protein, on patient recovery and quality of life. By focusing on a multi-faceted approach rather than single-agent therapies, the trial seeks to address the high rates of adverse events and concerns about cancer recurrence. The overarching goal is to enhance the overall care experience for thoracic cancer patients during the peri-operative period.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults eligible for complete resection of lung, gastric, or esophageal cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with small cell or carcinoid tumors, those currently receiving treatment for cancer, or pregnant/breastfeeding women may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this trial could significantly improve recovery and quality of life for patients undergoing surgery for thoracic cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in integrating complementary therapies into cancer care, but this approach is relatively novel in the context of thoracic surgery.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria

• Adults eligible for complete resection of lung, gastric or esophageal cancer

Exclusion criteria

* Small cell, carcinoid, or gastrointestinal stromal (GIST) tumours
* Any wedge resections of lung cancer
* History of cancer with active treatment in the last 3 years (not including superficial bladder cancer or non-melanoma skin cancer)
* Patients currently receiving care guided by an ND or who have previously seen an ND in the last 3 months
* Pregnant or breastfeeding women\*
* Any reason which, in the opinion of the Principal Investigator (or delegate), would prevent the subject from participating in the study
* Use of an investigational drug or participation in an investigational study within 30 days prior to starting the study

Where this trial is running

Ottawa, Ontario and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Lung CancerGastric CancerEsophageal CancerNatural Health ProductsThoracic CancerSurgeryIntegrative CareNutrition
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.