WATS Sampling for Stomach Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new method called WATS Sampling (Wide Area Transepithelial Sampling) to determine if it can detect early signs of stomach cancer more effectively than the usual biopsy method. Researchers believe WATS could improve the detection of early stomach issues by up to 35%. They will also examine certain markers in the body that could aid in diagnosing stomach problems. The trial seeks participants already scheduled for an upper endoscopy, a procedure to examine the stomach. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance early detection methods for stomach cancer.
What prior data suggests that the WATS Sampling technique is safe for diagnosing stomach cancer?
Research has shown that WATS (Wide Area Transepithelial Sampling) safely checks for stomach problems. Studies using WATS alongside traditional methods found that patients tolerate it well, with no major safety issues reported.
One study found that WATS identified certain conditions more effectively without causing significant side effects, indicating its general safety for patients undergoing the test. Although not all safety data is available, using WATS with other diagnostic tools has not revealed any major safety concerns.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about WATS Sampling for stomach cancer because it offers a new way to detect cancerous cells that might be missed by traditional biopsy methods. Unlike standard endoscopic procedures that rely on random tissue samples, WATS Sampling uses a brush to collect a broader range of tissue, potentially uncovering abnormalities more effectively. This technique aims to improve early detection rates, which is crucial for better treatment outcomes and survival rates.
What evidence suggests that the WATS Sampling is effective for diagnosing stomach cancer?
Research has shown that WATS Sampling, or Wide Area Transepithelial Sampling, holds promise for detecting early cancer signs. Previous studies demonstrated that adding WATS3D increased the detection of precancerous changes in the esophagus, such as High-Grade Dysplasia and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma, by over 400% compared to traditional methods. It also improved the detection of Low-Grade Dysplasia by nearly 89%. While most research has focused on the esophagus, these findings suggest WATS Sampling might also effectively spot early changes in the stomach. This trial will evaluate WATS Sampling in patients scheduled for standard of care upper endoscopy, using its larger sampling area and advanced imaging to potentially find early cancerous changes that standard biopsies might miss.36789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Douglas Morgan, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients who need an upper endoscopy, which is a procedure where a doctor looks inside the stomach. It's designed to test if a new way of sampling cells from the stomach lining can better detect early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions compared to current methods.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo wide-area trans-epithelial gastric sampling using WATS technology and standard biopsies for diagnostic comparison
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including analysis of biomarkers
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- WATS Sampling
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lead Sponsor