St. Bernward Krankenhaus GmbH

The department of Hämatologie und Onkologie at St. Bernward Krankenhaus is conducting trials that aim to improve disease-free survival for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. By comparing pre‑operative FOLFOX chemotherapy with risk‑adapted postoperative regimens, researchers hope to reduce recurrence and extend the period without disease.

• Evaluation of pre‑operative chemotherapy sequencing
• Risk‑adapted postoperative treatment
• Impact on recurrence and metastasis
• Stratification by tumor stage and local failure risk

Participation in the German Rectal Cancer Study Group enables the site to contribute valuable data toward more effective treatment pathways for this challenging disease.

A second trial investigates strategies to achieve organ preservation in patients with intermediate and high‑risk rectal cancer. The study compares short‑course radiotherapy with conventional chemoradiotherapy followed by consolidation chemotherapy, seeking to maintain an intact rectum and avoid permanent stoma formation.

• Short‑course radiotherapy versus long‑course chemoradiotherapy
• Consolidation chemotherapy after radiotherapy
• MRI‑based selection for organ‑preserving candidates
• Assessment of stoma‑free survival

By focusing on quality‑of‑life outcomes, the research at St. Bernward Krankenhaus supports the development of less invasive yet equally effective treatment options for rectal cancer patients.