Recruiting

Using colonoscopy early after colorectal cancer surgery to catch leaks

Plain-English translation of NCT07588386 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated June 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

What is this trial?

This trial compares two approaches after surgery for low colorectal cancer. Half of the participants will receive a colonoscopy (a camera test of the colon) between days 5 and 8 after surgery to look for leaks at the surgical connection site. The other half will be watched carefully after surgery and only receive a colonoscopy if symptoms suggest a problem. The trial wants to know if finding leaks early helps doctors treat them faster and reduce serious complications.

After surgery to remove colorectal cancer, sometimes the surgical connection leaks, which is a serious complication. Finding these leaks early could allow doctors to treat them with less invasive methods before they become life-threatening and require another surgery.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 80 years old
you have been diagnosed with colorectal adenocarcinoma (a type of cancer)
your tumor is located in the lower part of your colon or rectum, 15 centimeters or closer to the anal opening
you have had laparoscopic or open surgery to remove the cancer and the surgeon made a direct connection between the colon or rectum
you are able to understand the study and willing to sign a consent form

You likely don't qualify if…

you have cancer that has spread to distant parts of your body
you had problems with your surgical connection or blood flow during surgery that required extra stitches or a colostomy
you have serious heart, lung, or bleeding problems that would make a colonoscopy unsafe
you are pregnant or breastfeeding
you have had previous colorectal surgery (except for removing polyps)

What participation looks like

If you join the early colonoscopy group, you will receive a colonoscopy between the 5th and 8th day after your surgery, once your doctor thinks you are ready. Your colon will need to be cleaned out beforehand using a bowel preparation method your hospital uses. If you are in the routine monitoring group, you will receive standard post-surgery care with close watching for any warning signs, and a colonoscopy will only be done if you develop symptoms like fever, worsening belly pain, or unusual drainage.

Using colonoscopy early after colorectal cancer surgery to catch leaks

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)