3DCC V1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluating the role of 3D virtual and printed models in Colorectal patient pre-operative education, decision making and consent
IRAS ID
266848
Contact name
Danilo Miskovic
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 30 days
Research summary
Colorectal cancer is the 4th most common cancer and 2nd most common cause of cancer death in the UK, accounting for 10% of all cancer related deaths. Surgery remains the best treatment for long-term cure.
Advanced cancers pose a significant challenge. Patients often require complex exenterative surgery (removal of multiple organs, bone, muscle and blood vessels).
Advances in surgical technique and perioperative care have meant more patients are suitable for this radical treatment. However, despite significant progress, these procedures still cause significant complications, long term impact on quality of life and death with no guarantee of long-term cure. For patients with advanced cancer there is a consideration between an extended survival and the risk of significant complications with radical surgery. Ensuring adequate patient education is therefore crucial to enable patient to make an informed choice and facilitate shared decision making.In order to provide informed consent for a given procedure, patients must be able to understand what the treatment being proposed involves, its risks and benefits and its functional impact along with any other options. However, studies of rectal cancer patients suggest we may not be meeting these basic standards. Many patients struggle to recall essential details of their intended operation or any complications. Perhaps more seriously many rectal cancer patients felt they were not offered a choice in their treatment.
Patient specific three-dimensional virtual (CGI) models may aid the consent process. 3D models may enable patients to achieve a better understanding of their disease and surgery. Given the significant variation, complexity, impact on quality of life and associated complications of radical surgery, personalised 3D models may be of particular benefit in this patient group.
However, evidence at present is limited- the usefulness, indications and feasibility of using 3D models in routine education and consent processes has yet to be established.REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
19/WA/0296
Date of REC Opinion
15 Nov 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion