Organ-sparing surgery for elderly patients with early colon cancer

Organ SPARring Surgery vs. Standard Resection for Early Stage COLon Cancer in Elderly Frail Patients

Not applicable Interventional Zealand University Hospital · NCT05734300

This study is testing a new, less invasive surgery for older patients with early colon cancer to see if it can be safer and easier than traditional surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorZealand University Hospital Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Copenhagen, Herlev and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05734300 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates a new organ-preserving surgical approach called Combined Endoscopic Laparoscopic Surgery (CELS) for elderly patients diagnosed with early-stage colon cancer. The aim is to determine if this less invasive technique can reduce the risks associated with traditional resection methods, particularly for frail patients. Participants aged 75 and older with specific tumor characteristics will be recruited to assess the safety and effectiveness of CELS compared to standard resection. The study focuses on minimizing surgical trauma while ensuring effective cancer treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are males and females aged 75 years and older with early-stage colon adenocarcinoma who are suitable for the CELS procedure.

Not a fit: Patients with high-risk histological features or other malignancies, as well as those unable to provide informed consent, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce surgical risks and improve recovery outcomes for elderly patients with early colon cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While this specific approach is novel, similar minimally invasive techniques have shown promise in other studies, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male and Female participants providing written informed consent aged 75 years and older
* PS score ≥1 and /or ASA score ≥3
* Macroscopically or pathological colonic adenocarcinoma
* Clinical TNM classification T1/T2 N0 M0
* Eligible and suitable for CELS resection according to MDT
* Tumor must be located in colon, and not involving the ileac valve or taking up more than 50% of the lumen in an air-distended bowel wall

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to give informed consent
* Histological high-risk features in biopsy material from tumor (mucin, signet cells, de- differentiation)
* Suspected other malignancy than adenocarcinoma (e.g. neuroendocrine tumors)
* Preoperative chemo/radiotherapy
* Creation of stoma perioperative
* Non-Danish speakers

Where this trial is running

Copenhagen, Herlev and 2 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 Colon CancerFrailtyElderly populationEarly colo-rectal cancerOrgan Preserving ApproachCombined Endoscopic Laparoscopic Surgery
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.