Empty bladder may steady the target in rectal cancer radiation

NCT ID NCT04323722

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Institut Cancerologie de l'Ouest Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study investigates whether having an empty bladder reduces movement of the mesorectum (tissue around the rectum) during radiotherapy for rectal cancer. About 50 adults with rectal cancer receive planning CT scans and weekly CBCT scans under both empty and full bladder conditions. The goal is to see if bladder depletion leads to more stable positioning, which could improve treatment accuracy.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If confirmed, emptying the bladder before radiotherapy could make treatment more precise, potentially reducing side effects for rectal cancer patients.
What could go wrong: This is a small observational study, not a treatment trial. Results may not lead to changes in practice, and individual anatomy varies.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

rectal cancer rectal neoplasm rectum adenocarcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

RECTAL CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

ICO René Gauducheau

Saint-Herblain, 44805, France
Institut de Cacerologie de l'ouest - site Paul Papin

Angers, 49055, France

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