Radiation-Chemo combo may let rectal cancer patients skip surgery

NCT ID NCT03904043

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

Summary

This study tested whether a short course of radiation followed by chemotherapy could eliminate the need for surgery in people with early-stage rectal cancer. 63 patients were enrolled, and the treatment aimed for a complete clinical response, meaning no tumor could be found on exams or scans. The approach builds on earlier promising results and offers a potential non-surgical option for eligible patients.

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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

Locations

  • Mayo Clinic

    Rochester, Minnesota, 55905, United States

  • University of Colorado

    Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States

  • University of Vermont Medical Center

    Burlington, Vermont, 05401, United States

  • Washington University School of Medicine

    St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States