Plain-English translation of NCT04949646 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
Rectal cancer surgery, called total mesorectal excision (TME), is an effective treatment but can damage nerves in the pelvis that control bowel and bladder function. This trial tests whether intraoperative pelvic nerve monitoring (a special device that watches nerve signals during surgery) can help surgeons protect these nerves and prevent problems like incontinence or sexual dysfunction after surgery.
After rectal cancer surgery, many patients experience bowel and bladder control problems that seriously affect their quality of life. Researchers believe that by monitoring the pelvic nerves during surgery with a special device, surgeons may be able to avoid damaging these nerves and reduce these complications.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
If you are in the monitoring group, during your rectal cancer removal surgery, the surgical team will place small electrodes around your sphincter muscles and a catheter in your bladder to monitor nerve signals throughout the operation. This helps the surgeon see in real-time if nerves are at risk of injury. If you are in the comparison group, you will receive standard surgery without this additional monitoring. All participants will have follow-up assessments of bowel and bladder function after surgery.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 9, 2026 · Not medical advice
Greece
Sponsor
Larissa University Hospital
Collaborators
General Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly
Enrollment target
~44 participants
Started
September 2021
Primary completion
September 2027
Age range
18 Years – 90 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in September 2025.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Konstantinos Tepetes, Prof
Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Larissa
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.