Receive a special wound dressing to help manage radiation side effects

Back to Rectal Cancer, Radiotherapy trials

What is this trial?

Radiation therapy for rectal cancer often causes painful skin damage in the anal area, which can be severe enough to interrupt treatment. This trial is testing whether Mepilex Lite Dressings — a special wound covering — placed inside the anal canal, combined with indomethacin suppositories (a pain-relieving medication inserted rectally), can reduce this pain and help protect the damaged skin. The goal is to help patients complete their cancer treatment more comfortably and improve their quality of life.

Anal pain from radiation therapy is currently treated only with medication, but patients often experience pain relief that doesn't last long — especially during bowel movements. This medication addresses pain after the fact, rather than protecting the sensitive skin from further damage. Researchers believe this new treatment approach might actively protect and heal the injured skin, offering better, longer-lasting relief.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with rectal cancer confirmed by a tissue sample
your doctor has recommended radiation therapy as part of your treatment
you are receiving radiation therapy for the first time and have developed moderate to severe radiation-related skin damage
you are 18 years old or older
you are willing to participate and sign the consent form

You likely don't qualify if…

you have allergies to the wound dressing material or indomethacin medication
you have stopped or interrupted your radiation therapy
you have serious heart, brain, digestive system, blood, or active infections
you already have anal fissures or other skin damage in the anal area
you have a surgically created opening for bowel movements (colostomy or ileostomy)

What participation looks like

If you join this trial, you will receive either the standard pain medication alone, or the same medication plus the special wound dressing inserted into the anal canal. You will insert the dressing (or medication suppository) before bed each night after emptying your bowels. Throughout your radiation therapy, the research team will monitor your pain levels and skin healing to see whether the dressing helps reduce pain and improve comfort during treatment.

Special wound dressing to reduce anal pain from rectal cancer radiation

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)