Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Diagnostic Value of Diffusion-weighted Magnetic Resonance in High-risk Colorectal and Appendiceal Neoplasms

This study is investigating a special type of MRI scan, called diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI/MRI), to see how well it can find cancer cells that have spread to the lining of the tummy (abdomen). This spread is called peritoneal metastases and can happen with bowel or appendix cancers. Doctors want to know if this advanced MRI scan, which creates detailed pictures of body tissues, is better than existing scans and procedures for spotting these cancer cells in people who are at a higher risk of them returning after initial surgery. The goal is to detect any spread earlier and more accurately, which could help doctors decide on the best next steps, like surgery, to improve patient outcomes.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Laval University

Enrolment target

Start

01 Sep 2022

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2025

Peritoneal Carcinomatosis Peritoneal Metastases Appendix Cancer Appendix Neoplasm Colorectal Cancer

What is this study about?

This research study is about finding the best way to detect if certain cancers, specifically bowel (colorectal) cancer or appendix cancer, have spread to the lining inside your tummy. This spread is known as 'peritoneal metastases'. It's really important for doctors to find these cancer cells early and accurately, because it helps them decide on the most effective treatment plan for you. The study is particularly interested in people who have already had surgery for one of these cancers and are thought to be at a higher risk of the cancer coming back in the tummy lining.

The main tool being tested in this study is a special kind of MRI scan called 'whole-body diffusion-weighted MRI' (WB-DWI/MRI). An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures inside your body without using X-rays. This particular MRI technique is good at spotting changes in tissues that might indicate cancer. Currently, doctors often use CT scans and a small operation called a diagnostic laparoscopy to look for these cancer cells. This study wants to see if adding the special MRI scan can improve how well and how early doctors can detect these cancer cells, compared to the methods they use now.

The findings from this study could be very important. If the WB-DWI/MRI proves to be more accurate or better at early detection, it could become a standard part of how doctors monitor and care for patients at high risk of peritoneal metastases. This could lead to earlier treatment for some people, potentially improving their chances and outcomes. It’s about making future care better for patients with bowel and appendix cancers.

Key takeaways

The study explores a new MRI scan to find cancer spread in the tummy.
It focuses on people with bowel or appendix cancer at high risk of recurrence.
The goal is to see if this MRI improves early detection compared to current methods.
It involves MRI, CT scans, and a keyhole surgery called laparoscopy.
Earlier detection could lead to better treatment planning.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you would need to have a confirmed diagnosis of either bowel cancer or a high-risk type of appendix cancer. It's important that during your initial surgery, all visible cancer in your tummy lining was removed, and that scans before the study show no evidence of distant cancer spread to other parts of your body.

You would also need to have at least one feature that puts you at a higher risk of the cancer coming back in your tummy lining. This could include if some spread to the tummy lining or ovaries was removed during your first surgery, or if your original tumour caused a perforation (a hole).

You wouldn't be able to join if you still have cancer in your tummy lining that couldn't be removed, if your appendix cancer was a less aggressive type, or if scans show the cancer has spread to distant parts of your body. Also, you need to be well enough to have surgery again, if it turns out to be needed, and able to have an MRI scan.

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.

Do I have bowel cancer or a high-risk appendix cancer?
Was all visible cancer in my tummy removed during my last surgery?
Do I have one of the high-risk features for the cancer coming back in my tummy (e.g., previous spread removed, perforated tumour)?
Are there no signs of cancer spread to other distant parts of my body?
Am I well enough for surgery if it's needed?
Can I have an MRI scan?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will have a series of appointments over about two years. Twelve months after your initial surgery for cancer, you will have both a CT scan and a special whole-body diffusion-weighted MRI (WB-DWI/MRI) scan. For the MRI, you'll be asked to drink a litre of pineapple juice about an hour before the scan. Just before the MRI, you'll receive a small injection to help reduce normal bowel movements so the pictures are clearer. Following these scans, you will also undergo a diagnostic laparoscopy. This is a keyhole surgery where doctors look directly inside your tummy to see if there are any signs of cancer. You will continue to have regular check-ups with scans and blood tests, similar to routine care, if no cancer is found. If cancer is found, your doctors will discuss further treatment options, which might include another surgery.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer the benefit of potentially detecting any cancer recurrence earlier than with standard methods alone, allowing for quicker treatment planning. However, there are no guarantees of direct benefit to you. Risks involved include those typical of MRI scans (such as claustrophobia or reactions to the injection), CT scans (exposure to radiation), and the usual risks associated with a diagnostic laparoscopy, including those of surgery and anaesthesia. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (2)

CIUSSS de l'Est-de-l'Île-de-Montréal
Verified postcode
Montreal, Canada
CHU de Québec
Verified postcode
Québec, Canada

Common questions

What is peritoneal metastases?

It's when cancer cells, often from bowel or appendix cancer, spread and grow on the lining inside your tummy (abdomen).

What is a diffusion-weighted MRI?

It's a special type of MRI scan that creates detailed pictures to help doctors spot changes in body tissues, which could be a sign of cancer.

Why do I need to drink pineapple juice before the MRI?

Drinking pineapple juice helps to get clearer images of your bowel during the MRI scan.

What is a diagnostic laparoscopy?

It's a small operation where a surgeon makes tiny cuts and uses a camera to look directly inside your tummy for signs of cancer.

How long will I be in the study?

Your participation in the study will last for two years.

How to find out more

Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.