Answers to questions that patients regularly ask about the study.
We are investigating whether a new technique (cell-free tumour DNA analysis of abdominal (lavage) fluid) is more reliable at finding metastases to the peritoneum than the current method using cytology, and whether this method can predict the development of metastases.
During your keyhole operation, abdominal (lavage) fluid is collected, which is already standard treatment. We use the remaining fluid for the new DNA analysis. You do not undergo any additional examinations and there are no additional risks compared with your regular treatment.
You will not benefit personally from taking part. By taking part, you contribute to research into the right choices in the treatment of gastric cancer for future patients.
Yes. It is up to you to decide whether to take part, and you can stop at any time by telling your treating physician. You do not have to say why you are stopping, and it has no influence on your further treatment.
Your data and body material are given a code, so that nobody can trace them back to you personally. They are stored for at least 25 years in a biobank for this study and possibly other scientific research into gastric cancer.
No, taking part in this study does not come with any compensation.
See the page Participating centres to find out whether your hospital is taking part in the study.
It is quite likely that you can, but always discuss this with your treating physician.
The best people to ask questions about the study are your treating physician. You can also get in touch via the contact page.