Improving surgery outcomes for frail elderly patients with colorectal cancer

Effect of CGA for Frail Elderly Patients Operated for Colorectal Cancer - The CRC Frailty-study Can Preoperative Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment and Care in Addition to Standard ERAS Protocol Reduce Mortality After Colorectal Surgery for Carcinoma in the Frail Elderly?

Not applicable Interventional Sahlgrenska University Hospital · NCT04358328

This study is testing whether personalized care plans can help frail elderly patients over 70 recover better after surgery for colorectal cancer compared to standard care.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment340 (estimated)
Ages70 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSahlgrenska University Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations2 sites (Gothenburg, Västra Götalandsregionen and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04358328 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter randomized controlled trial investigates the impact of individualized comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) and care on postoperative outcomes in frail elderly patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer. The study focuses on patients aged 70 and older, who are at higher risk for complications due to frailty. By applying the ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) concept, the trial aims to enhance recovery and reduce morbidity in this vulnerable population. The effectiveness of CGA will be compared to standard care to determine its benefits in improving surgical outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are frail elderly patients aged 70 and older with potentially curable colorectal cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are terminally ill, in a palliative situation, or unable to understand study information may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve recovery and reduce complications for frail elderly patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that addressing frailty in surgical patients can lead to improved outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential based on existing research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Potentially curable colorectal cancer (according to cTNM)
* ≥ 70 years old
* Frailty (CFS-9 v2.0 score 4-8)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Palliative situation
* Unable to understand study information
* Acute surgery
* Terminally ill patient (CFS-9 9)
* Less than 6 months expected survival
* Not willing to participate

Where this trial is running

Gothenburg, Västra Götalandsregionen 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 Colorectal NeoplasmsFrailtyCGAElderlyColorectal cancerComprehensive Geriatric Assessment
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.