NCT04921917 · Duke University
Exercise and Soft Tissue Sarcoma
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of a neoadjuvant (i.e. pre-treatment) exercise regimen on extremity function and postoperative wound healing. The study group will include patients with a primary diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma undergoing treatment with neoadjuvant radiation therapy and surgical resection.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of a neoadjuvant (i.e. pre-treatment) exercise regimen on extremity function and postoperative wound healing. The study group will include patients with a primary diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma undergoing treatment with neoadjuvant radiation therapy and surgical resection. Patients with upper or lower extremity sarcomas will be considered for enrollment.
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
- Males and females within the ages of 18-85
- Diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma that has been histologically confirmed by an approved reference pathologist
- Sarcoma of the upper or lower extremity location
- Treatment plan that includes neo-adjuvant radiation therapy followed by surgical resection
- Expected primary wound closure performed at the time at surgery
- Any disease stage
- Any tumor grade
- Any histologic subtype
- First or recurrent presentations
- No vascular invasion or resection/repair/reconstruction that results in decreased perfusion of the extremity
- No history of radiation therapy to the tumor and/or surgical area prior to the current treatment being studied
- Must be able to comply with follow up visits
- Must be able to provide own consent
Exclusion criteria
- Patients under the age of 18, or over the age of 85
- Treatment plan that does not include neo-adjuvant radiation and surgical excision
- Sarcoma location other than the upper or lower extremity
- History of radiation therapy to the tumor and/or surgical area prior to the current treatment being studied
- High dose steroid therapy (defined as \>5mg prednisone, or equivalent, with the last 30 days)
- Active treatment with chemotherapy within the last 30 days
- Inability of the patient to provide informed consent (i.e. dementia, cognitive impairment, non-English speakers)
- Plan for post-operative radiation therapy
- Underlying severe cardiopulmonary disease
- Prior surgery, other than a biopsy, at the site of disease
- Tumors that are ulcerative or fungating through the dermis at the time of presentation
- Vascular invasion or resection/repair/reconstruction that results in decreased perfusion of the extremity
- Vascular disease resulting in clinically apparent compromise in blood flow to the treatment extremity (i.e. peripheral vascular disease with diminished pulses, venous insufficiency with clinical evidence of vascular congestion)
- Actively uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (documentation of history of Diabetes with A1c\>8)
- Active deep vein thrombosis in the treatment extremity
- Inability to comply with follow up visits
- Pregnant females (women of childbearing potential must have a negative serum pregnancy test prior to enrollment)
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
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 Apr 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations