To compare the Efficacy of additional Tumor DebulKing Surgery versus chemotherapy alone in recurrent Platinum-sensitive Ovarian cancer
When ovarian cancer returns after successful treatment, doctors usually offer more chemotherapy. This study explores whether having another operation to remove as much cancer as possible before starting chemotherapy can improve outcomes. The trial compares two groups of patients. One group has surgery to remove tumours followed by chemotherapy, while the second group receives standard chemotherapy alone. To join, your cancer must have come back for the first time, at least six months after your previous platinum chemotherapy. A specialist surgeon must also believe that all visible cancer can be safely removed, and you must be in good general health. The purpose is to see whether this extra operation delays cancer growth and helps people live longer, healthier lives compared to standard treatment.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When ovarian cancer returns after initial treatment, it is known as a recurrence. For many women, standard NHS care involves receiving further chemotherapy, typically using medicines made with platinum. Doctors want to know whether operating to remove returning tumours before starting chemotherapy could offer patients better long-term results.
This trial compares the standard approach of chemotherapy alone against a combined approach: an operation followed by chemotherapy. The surgical procedure is called debulking, which means removing as much visible cancer in the tummy as safely as possible. Patients are placed into one of the two treatment groups by chance.
This study matters because it aims to provide clear evidence on whether second surgeries are truly worthwhile. If the combined approach helps women live longer and stay cancer-free for longer without causing undue harm, it could change treatment guidelines in the UK and around the world.
Key takeaways
- Tests whether a second surgery before chemotherapy improves survival for recurrent ovarian cancer.
- Open to women whose cancer has returned for the first time after at least six months.
- Participants are randomly chosen to receive either surgery plus chemotherapy or chemotherapy alone.
- A surgeon must be confident that all visible tumours can be safely removed.
- Participation is completely voluntary and you can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This trial is for adult women whose epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer has come back for the first time. Your cancer must be sensitive to platinum drugs, meaning it responded well to your initial treatment and did not return for at least six months after your last platinum-based chemotherapy.
You must also meet specific health checks. These include being well enough to carry out everyday activities, having had all visible tumour cleared in your very first cancer surgery, and not having a large build-up of fluid in your tummy. An experienced surgeon must also confirm that it looks possible to remove all visible tumours completely.
You cannot take part if your cancer has returned more than once, if you have had more than one previous course of chemotherapy, or if you have a non-epithelial type of tumour. Having another active cancer or health condition that makes major surgery unsafe will also mean you cannot join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am a woman aged 18 or older.
- My ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer has come back for the first time.
- It has been at least six months since my last platinum chemotherapy treatment.
- I am active and able to manage my normal daily tasks independently.
- I do not have a large build-up of fluid in my abdomen.
What does participation involve?
If you agree to take part, a computer will assign you at random to one of two groups. If you are in the surgery group, you will have an operation through an incision in your tummy to remove visible tumour spots. Once you heal from the operation, you will begin standard chemotherapy. If you are in the chemotherapy group, you will start standard chemotherapy straight away without surgery. During the trial, you will have regular hospital visits for physical exams, blood tests, and imaging scans (such as CT or MRI scans). After your treatment finishes, doctors will monitor your health, recovery, and quality of life during routine check-ups over several years.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- City HospitalApproximateBirmingham, England
Common questions
What does platinum-sensitive mean?
It means your cancer responded well to platinum chemotherapy drugs (such as carboplatin) and stayed away for at least six months after finishing treatment.
Can I choose to have the surgery?
No. A computer assigns participants to either surgery plus chemotherapy or chemotherapy alone at random so the results are fair and reliable.
Will I still receive chemotherapy if I have surgery?
Yes. Every participant in this study receives standard chemotherapy, regardless of whether they have an operation first.
How long will I be monitored in the trial?
Your medical team will follow your progress throughout your treatment and continue regular health check-ups for several years afterwards.
Does taking part cost anything?
No. The trial treatments, tests, and standard care are provided through the NHS, though you will need to arrange your own travel to hospital appointments.
How to find out more
David Luesley
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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