Primary Tumor Research and Outcomes Network

Overall survival data

Time frame: From the date of enrollment until the date of dropout (ie. consent withdrawal, lost-to follow-up or death) which can be up to 25 years

FU visits will be scheduled and performed according to the local standard of care and at each scheduled visit the patient's survival will be documented. In case a patient misses a scheduled visit it will be assessed if the patient is still alive

Local disease recurrence data

Time frame: From the date of enrollment until the date of dropout (ie. consent withdrawal, lost-to follow-up or death) which can be up to 25 years

At first prospective treatment and every FU visit, each patient, regardless of which stage they are at in their treatment, will be evaluated for local disease recurrence. Patients that are classified as "non-virgin" will be evaluated for local disease recurrence also at baseline.

Perioperative morbidity data

Time frame: From the date of enrollment until the date of dropout (ie. consent withdrawal, lost-to follow-up or death) which can be up to 25 years

Complications will be assessed by evaluating the patient's medical files from the time treatment was initiated until the day of follow-up. Intraoperative complications: (Airway/ventilation; Allergic reaction; Anesthesia related; Bone implant interface failure requiring revision; Cardiac; Cord injury; Dural tear; Hardware malposition requiring revision; Hypotension ; Massive blood loss ; Nerve root injury; Pressure sores; Vascular injury; Visceral injury; Other). Pre-/post treatment complications: (Cardiac arrest/failure/arrhythmia; Construct failure with loss of correction; Construct failure without loss of correction; CSF leak/meningocele; Deep vein thrombosis; Deep wound infection; Delirium; Dysphagia; Dysphonia; GI bleeding; Hematoma; Myocardial infarction; Neurologic deterioration; Non-union; Pneumonia; Postoperative neuropathic pain; Pressure sores; Pulmonary embolism; Superficial wound infection; Systemic infection; Urinary tract infection; Wound dehiscence; Other)

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.