New approach to colostomy for rectal cancer surgery

Defunctioning Left-sided Colostomy in Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer

Not applicable Interventional Umeå University · NCT06149741

This study is testing a new type of colostomy surgery for rectal cancer to see if it can help patients have fewer complications and better bowel function after their operation.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUmeå University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Umeå)
Trial IDNCT06149741 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This prospective, multi-center study evaluates a novel type of defunctioning loop stoma following low anterior resection for rectal cancer. The procedure involves complete splenic flexure mobilization and total mesorectal excision, with an anastomosis created at the pelvic floor. A redundant colon will be brought up and matured in the left iliac fossa, and patient bowel function and quality of life will be monitored at baseline and one year postoperatively. The study aims to reduce complications such as dehydration and kidney injury compared to traditional loop ileostomy, with approximately 20 patients participating in this pilot study.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who require a defunctioning stoma and are undergoing mesorectal excision for rectal cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with significant atherosclerotic disease or previous oncological colonic resections may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved bowel function and quality of life for patients undergoing rectal cancer surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel, similar studies have shown promise in improving outcomes for patients undergoing colorectal surgeries.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥18 years
* Capacity for informed consent
* Planned defunctioning stoma
* Planned mesorectal excision with anastomosis for rectal cancer

Exclusion Criteria:

* Manifest atherosclerotic disease (peripheral vascular disease, previous myocardial infarction, angina, etc)
* Previous oncological colonic resection
* Defunctioning stoma in situ
* Intraoperative event leading to bowel resection and subsequent inability to bring out left-sided colostomy without tension on the anastomosis
* Intraoperative circumstances as judged by the operating surgeon leading to unacceptable risks due to loop colostomy placement (abdominal wall size, short mesentery, other preconditions)

Where this trial is running

Umeå

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.