Long-term outcomes for rectal cancer patients treated with organ preservation methods

Longterm Functional Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Organ Preserving Treatment for Rectal Cancer With or Without Local Excision After Chemoradiotherapy

Observational Insel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern · NCT06249672

This study tests how well organ-preserving treatments work for rectal cancer patients who respond well to initial therapy, helping them avoid major surgery and improve their long-term quality of life.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorInsel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Bern)
Trial IDNCT06249672 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the long-term functional outcomes of patients with rectal cancer who undergo organ-preserving treatments after receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. It focuses on patients who demonstrate a near-complete response to treatment, allowing them to avoid major surgical procedures. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these organ preservation strategies, which may include local excision, in comparison to traditional surgical options. By analyzing patient outcomes, the study seeks to provide insights into the viability of organ preservation as a standard treatment approach.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old with rectal cancer located within 12 cm of the anal verge who have shown a near-complete response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent or those for whom follow-up is not feasible will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a safer treatment option for rectal cancer patients, reducing the need for invasive surgeries and preserving quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for organ preservation strategies in rectal cancer treatment, indicating that this approach is gaining traction in clinical practice.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* \>18 years of age
* Informed consent
* Diagnosis of rectal cancer, \<12cm from anal verge
* Treatment by chemoradiation (short course 5x5 Gy or 28x1.8 Gy with concomitant 5FU)
* Re staging with MRI/endoscopy shows (near) complete response (max 2cm tumor scar)
* Decision for treatment by organ preservation strategy (with or without local excision)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to give consent
* Follow-up not possible

Where this trial is running

Bern

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 Rectal Cancer
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.