Could drugs replace surgery for some stomach and colon cancers?

This study aimed to see if approved immunotherapy drugs (nivolumab with or without ipilimumab) could help people with early-stage colorectal or gastroesophageal cancer delay or avoid major surgery to remove their tumors. The goal was an 'organ preservation' strategy, using the drugs first and closely monitoring patients. If the tumors responded well, surgery might be postponed or skipped. The study was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled.