Using radiofrequency ablation to boost immune response in colorectal liver cancer patients

Improving Survival of COlorectal LIver Metastases by RFA-mediated Immunostimulation

Not applicable Interventional University of Aarhus · NCT04798898

This study is testing if using radiofrequency ablation during surgery can help boost the immune response in patients with colorectal liver cancer to improve their chances of survival.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Aarhus Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Aarhus)
Trial IDNCT04798898 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as a supplementary treatment to enhance the immune response in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal liver metastases. The hypothesis is that RFA will partially destroy the tumors, making hidden cancer antigens visible to the immune system, which may improve survival rates by reducing the risk of recurrence. A total of 220 patients with colorectal liver metastases will be enrolled and randomized to assess the effectiveness of this approach. The study aims to provide insights into how RFA can be utilized to stimulate immunogenicity and improve patient outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with colorectal liver metastases who are scheduled for surgical resection and have at least one tumor measuring 3 cm or larger.

Not a fit: Patients with liver cirrhosis, extrahepatic metastases that cannot be treated curatively, or those with other malignant diseases within the past five years may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve survival rates for patients with colorectal liver metastases.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of RFA in cancer treatment is established, the specific approach of using RFA for immunostimulation in colorectal liver metastases is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with colorectal liver metastases planned for resection
* At least one tumor size \>=3cm
* Performance status 0-1

Exclusion Criteria:

* Liver cirrhosis
* Extrahepatic metastases that can not be addressed curatively
* Other malignant diseases within 5 years prior to diagnosis
* Prior RFA treatment

Where this trial is running

Aarhus

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 Liver Metastasis Colon 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.