Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 and up

Palliative radiotherapy for advanced non-operable rectal cancer

Official title: Palliative Hypofractionated Radiotherapy in Non-operable Rectal Cancer: A Retrospective Study

Run by Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa · NCT03853733 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a type of radiation treatment for people with advanced rectal cancer that can't be surgically removed, to see if it helps reduce pain and bleeding.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment50 (estimated)
SponsorConsorci Sanitari de Terrassa
Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Terrassa, Catalonia)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 1, 2016
Main results expectedMarch 1, 2027
Study endsMarch 1, 2027
Registry record updatedMarch 19, 2026
Trial IDNCT03853733 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are patients aged 18 and older with rectal or sigmoidal cancer who are not eligible for surgical resection.

Probably not a fit

Patients with non-rectal colorectal cancer or those who are candidates for surgical resection may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the effects of hypofractionated palliative radiotherapy in patients with advanced non-operable rectal cancer. Eligible patients, who are not candidates for surgical resection due to factors like age and comorbidities, will receive a total dose of 39Gy delivered in 13 sessions over 17 days. The study will assess symptomatic responses, particularly focusing on rectal bleeding and pain, as well as report any acute toxicity experienced by the patients. The methodology includes careful patient positioning and preparation to minimize radiation exposure to surrounding organs.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from advanced rectal cancer by alleviating symptoms.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise with similar palliative radiotherapy approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria :

1. Patients with rectal or sigmoidal cancer who were not candidates for surgical resection because advanced age, comorbidities, or multiple synchronous metastases at the time of diagnosis
2. Patients with = or \> 18 years old
3. Patients treated with a radiotherapy dose of 39Gy in 13 fractions of 3 Gy

Exclusion criteria:

1. Patients with a non rectum or sigma colo-rectal cancer.
2. Patients with \<18 years old.
3. Patients treated with concurrent chemotherapy
4. Patients candidates for surgical resection after radiotherapy

Where it's running

  • Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa
    Terrassa, Catalonia, Spain
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Joan Lozano, MD — Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa
  • Study coordinator: Joan Lozano, MD
  • Email: jlozano@cst.cat
  • Phone: +34 937003690

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.