Could some rectal cancer patients skip surgery? new study investigates
NCT ID NCT03179540
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study is testing whether active surveillance (watchful waiting) is as safe as surgery for people with low rectal cancer who have a complete response after chemoradiotherapy. About 90 participants will be monitored for 2 years to see how often the cancer returns and whether delayed surgery is still effective. The goal is to avoid major surgery and its side effects for those who may not need it.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
non-operative management (active surveillance)
What this could lead to
If successful, this approach could allow some patients with low rectal cancer to avoid surgery and its side effects, while still controlling the cancer.
What could go wrong
This is a Phase II study with only 90 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. There is a risk of cancer regrowth, and if that happens, surgery may be needed.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Sinai Health System
RECRUITINGToronto, Ontario, M5T 3L9, Canada
Contact