Specialty: Cancer, Primary sub-specialty: Colorectal; UKCRC code/ Disease: Cancer/ Malignant neoplasms of digestive organs research hub

Can we save the rectum by watchful waiting or transanal surgery following (chemo)radiotherapy versus total mesorectal excision for early rectal cancer?

The STAR-TREC trial looks at whether early rectal cancer can be treated effectively with radiotherapy, or radiotherapy plus chemotherapy, instead of major surgery. The aim is to destroy the tumour while saving the rectum, helping patients avoid major bowel surgery and the need for a permanent stoma bag.