New combo aims to shrink rectal tumors and avoid surgery

This study tests whether a short course of radiation followed by the drug ivonescimab can make rectal tumors disappear in people with a specific genetic type (pMMR/MSS) of mid-to-low rectal cancer. About 30 adults who have not had prior treatment will receive radiation for 5 days, then ivonescimab infusions every 3 weeks for up to 6 cycles. The goal is to see if the cancer completely responds, possibly allowing patients to avoid surgery and just be watched closely.