Palliative radiotherapy for advanced non-operable rectal cancer

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

Observational Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa · NCT03853733

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
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorConsorci Sanitari de Terrassa Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Terrassa, Catalonia)
Trial IDNCT03853733 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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

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

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

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Terrassa, Catalonia

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 Cancerpalliative radiotherapyrectal bleedinghypofractionated radiotherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.