Thermal Ablation for Colon Cancer Liver Metastases
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study will see whether collecting and analyzing needle biopsy samples from cancer liver metastases after a tumor ablation procedure will be able to identify cancer cells that are still alive. The results of these biopsies could help determine the next treatment for your cancer, but the biopsies could cause side effects.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on Coumadin, general clinical guidelines for the procedure will be followed, which might involve adjustments.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Thermal Ablation for Colon Cancer Liver Metastases?
Research shows that thermal ablation, including microwave ablation, is an effective treatment for patients with metastatic colon cancer to the liver, especially for those who cannot undergo surgery. It offers a potential cure for patients with multiple liver metastases, and there is growing evidence supporting its use in managing metastatic colorectal liver disease.12345
Is thermal ablation safe for treating liver metastases?
Thermal ablation techniques like microwave ablation (MWA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) have been studied for treating liver tumors, including those from colon cancer. While these treatments are generally considered safe, they can have complications such as incomplete tumor cell death and potential spread of cancer cells within the liver or to other parts of the body.24678
How is thermal ablation treatment different from other treatments for colon cancer liver metastases?
Thermal ablation is unique because it uses heat to destroy cancer cells in the liver, offering a treatment option for patients who cannot undergo surgery. It includes various methods like microwave and radiofrequency ablation, which can be performed percutaneously (through the skin) and may provide a curative approach for patients with non-resectable liver metastases.124910
Research Team
Constantinos Sofocleous, MD
Principal Investigator
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for people with colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver. They should have at least one lesion visible on a PET scan, a sufficient platelet count, and stable liver or limited extrahepatic disease. The study excludes those who don't meet these criteria.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Tumor Ablation and Biopsy
Participants undergo a standard of care tumor ablation procedure followed by post-ablation biopsies and PET scans. If PET scans are positive, additional biopsies are performed, and if cancer cells are detected, immediate retreatment with a second ablation is conducted.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for tumor response and safety using CT and PET scans, with the first scans post-ablation serving as the new baseline for comparison.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Thermal ablation (TA)
Thermal ablation (TA) is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Liver cancer
- Liver metastases
- Liver cancer
- Liver metastases
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- Liver cancer
- Liver metastases
- Liver cancer
- Liver metastases
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor