NCT04317534 · Greg Durm, MD
Adjuvant Pembrolizumab vs Observation Following Curative Resection for Stage I Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) With Primary Tumors Between 1-4 cm
What this study is about
A randomly assigned trial of adjuvant Pembrolizumab following surgical resection versus observation following surgical resection in patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with primary tumors between 1-4 cm.
View original scientific description
A randomized trial of adjuvant Pembrolizumab following surgical resection versus observation following surgical resection in patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with primary tumors between 1-4 cm. Patients will be randomized (1:1) 4-12 weeks following surgery to either: * Arm A: Pembrolizumab 400 mg every 6 weeks × 9 cycles * Arm B: Observation Stratification factors will include: PD-L1 TPS (\<50% vs. ≥50%), and tumor size (1-2 cm vs.
Interventions
DRUG
Pembrolizumab
Pembrolizumab 400mg IV
Primary outcome measures
Disease Free Survival (DFS)
Time frame: Up to 3 years from time of randomization
To evaluate whether the addition of adjuvant Pembrolizumab following surgical resection improves disease free survival compared with observation following surgical resection in patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is between 1-4 cm in size, regardless of PD-L1 TPS score. Median Disease Free Survival (DFS) will be reported.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- The participant (or legally acceptable representative if applicable) must provide written informed consent for the study. The participant may also provide consent for future unspecified research samples. However, the participant may participate in the study without participating in the future unspecified research sample collection. NOTE: Initial informed consent will remain valid throughout the 12-week period between surgical resection and study registration unless, in the opinion of the treating investigator, the participant experiences a significant change in medical or mental status.
- Males and females age ≥ 18 years at the time of consent.
- ECOG Performance Status of 0-1 within 28 days prior to registration.
- Patients must have undergone complete surgical resection of their stage I NSCLC between 4-12 weeks prior to registration and have negative surgical margins (R0).
- NOTE: Both squamous and non-squamous histologies are allowed into the study. Cancers
Where
- Tampa, Florida
- Chicago, Illinois
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Iowa City, Iowa
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Omaha, Nebraska
- New Brunswick, New Jersey
- Columbus, Ohio
- Portland, Oregon
- Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Charlottesville, Virginia
- Richmond, Virginia
And 1 more location — see the full list below.
Collaborators
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations