Clinical trials

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Condition / disease
Location
Status: Recruiting

The Effect of a Post-operative Exercise Programme Versus Standard Care on Physical Fitness of Patients With Breast Cancer Undergoing Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) Flap Reconstruction Surgery

All patients undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer should be offered the option of reconstructive surgery. The Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap or DIEP reconstruction as it is commonly referred to, is becoming the favoured reconstruction by both patients and surgeons as it gives a great cosmetic outcome as well as being a good option for patients who may have to undergo radiotherapy treatment after their surgery. Exercise has been demonstrated in previous research to improve tolerance of treatment (particularly chemotherapy), post operative fatigue and the overall quality of life in patients undergoing cancer treatment. Furthermore, it has shown to improve survival in patients who are being treated for breast cancer. The investigators are undertaking this study to investigate whether a structured exercise programme will improve patients fitness after surgery and ultimately improve their recovery after their reconstructive surgery. To do this, half of the people taking part will be undertaking a structured exercise programme and the other half will not and will be assessing which group recover better after their surgery. Currently, no breast reconstruction patients in Ireland are receiving a formal "exercise prescription" after their surgery so will be looking to see if this helps people recover better before it is made standard care for every breast patient in Ireland.

Participants needed: 78
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: FemaleType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Jun 26, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Women aged 18 years and older [+7]

Advanced breast cancer with skin involvement. [+3]

Status: Recruiting

MCT Enteral Feeding to Reduce Chyle Leak After Oesophagectomy

Chyle leak (chylothorax) is a recognised complication following minimally invasive oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer and may result in prolonged hospital stay, nutritional compromise, and need for additional interventions. Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) feeds reduce lymphatic flow as they are absorbed directly via the portal circulation rather than through the thoracic duct. While MCT feeds are commonly used in the management of established chyle leaks, their role in prevention has not been evaluated in a randomised controlled trial. This single-centre randomised controlled trial will evaluate whether initiating postoperative jejunostomy feeding with MCT-based enteral nutrition reduces the incidence of clinically and biochemically confirmed chyle leak compared with standard enteral feeding in patients undergoing minimally invasive or robotic-assisted oesophagectomy. Participants will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive either MCT-based feeds or standard jejunostomy feeds starting on postoperative day 1. The primary outcome is the incidence of chylothorax. Secondary outcomes include chest drain output, re-intervention rates, and length of hospital stay.

Participants needed: 160
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Jun 1, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Age ≥ 18 years [+4]

Inability to provide informed consent [+2]

Status: Recruiting

Evaluating the De-Escalation of Surveillance for Patients Who Have Undergone Curative Treatment for Primary Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women around the world. That means a lot of women are affected by it every year, and it's important that we always look for ways to improve their care, not just during treatment, but afterwards too. After treatment for early-stage breast cancer, patients usually come back to the hospital for regular check-ups for up to five years. These visits are based on old guidelines, and even though breast cancer treatment has improved a lot over the years, the follow-up schedule has stayed the same. This study is being done to see if we can safely reduce the number of hospital visits after treatment, while still keeping patients healthy and well looked after. Right now, patients are asked to attend follow-up appointments at 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months (that's every 6 to 12 months for five years). These clinic visits often involve long waits and can cause stress or anxiety. At the same time, patients are also invited for a mammogram once a year. Recent research shows that most recurrences of breast cancer are found by patients themselves or during their annual mammograms, not necessarily at these clinic visits. That's why we're looking at whether we can safely reduce the number of hospital appointments, without affecting patient safety. In this study, some patients will continue with the usual five-year clinic schedule. Others will only attend hospital clinics for the first two years (at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months), and after that, they will no longer need to come in for the extra follow-up visits, but they will still have their annual mammograms as normal. Within this study all participants will complete a short questionnaire once a year. This will help us understand how the different follow-up plans affect quality of life, and how patients feel about their care. This research study is taking place to find out if fewer hospital check-ups, combined with continued mammogram screening, is just as safe and possibly better for patients' wellbeing.

Participants needed: 560
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: FemaleType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Jun 1, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Female patients who are under cancer surveillance for a primary breast cancer wh... [+4]

Status: Recruiting

The Development of the Walsh Asthma Self-management Programme and Feasibility of Implementation in Adults With Asthma in Primary Care

Asthma is a common medical condition in Ireland. Adult patients tend to have periods when their asthma is stable and periods when it worsens. In order to reduce these periods of worsening asthma, effective ongoing management is required day to day by adults with asthma. Teaching adults how to manage their asthma effectively, plays a huge role in improving their asthma and having a better overall quality of life. This education on managing asthma has many different parts to it. Most adults will discover they have asthma through their general practitioner (GP) and it will be continued to be checked and managed through their GP or general practice nurse (GPN) in their primary care clinic for the duration of their lives. This research study is taking place to find out if a new education programme, will help adults manage their asthma better and improve the symptoms of asthma, reducing its overall impact on day-to-day life. This study is also looking at how easy it is to introduce and for nurses to deliver this study within a GP/ primary care centre. This study is to find out if this education programme works in a real life setting and if it can lead to better control of asthma for adults.

Participants needed: 40
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: May 27, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Adults over 18 years old

Adults under 18 years old [+4]

Status: Recruiting

Evaluating the De-Escalation of Surveillance for Patients Who Have Undergone Curative Treatment for Breast Cancer

Patients who were diagnosed with breast cancer and have finished their treatment will be given the opportunity to be part of this study. These patients will have been attending surveillance at the Breast Centre in Beaumont Hospital, Ireland for 2 years prior. These patients, who are doing well after breast cancer treatment, will be given the opportunity to enrol in this study, potentially being discharged from in person surveillance after 2 years, while still attending for their annual mammogram. Investigators intend to find out if a simpler follow-up plan could work just as safely, while also improving the patients quality of life.

Participants needed: 560
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: FemaleType: ObservationalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: May 7, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Female participants aged 18 years or older [+5]

Evidence of breast cancer recurrence or metastatic disease at the time of recrui... [+3]

Status: Recruiting

A Motor Learning Intervention to Target Walking Performance in Ambulant Children With Cerebral Palsy

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a new therapy approach to improve walking ability in children with Cerebral Palsy is acceptable to the children and the families in a community setting. The main questions we look to answer are: 1. Do the children/teens tolerate the therapy and feel that it is helpful? 2. Do the parents/ families feel the therapy helps and is easy to commit to? 3. Do the children/teens complete all their therapy sessions and assessments as planned? The participants will trial the therapy for 30 hours over 6 weeks and will perform assessments before and after to see if they meet their goals. They will also be interviewed to see how they felt about the therapy when they finish.

Participants needed: 14
Trial details
Age: 6-17Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Apr 14, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Primary diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy (GMFCS Levels I-III) [+3]

Has had surgery within 6 months of intervention start date [+3]

Status: Recruiting

Margin Optimisation Using Z-axis Assessment With Real-time Tomosynthesis (MOZART Study).

Breast-conserving surgery is commonly performed to remove early-stage breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). During surgery, the goal is to completely remove the tumour with a clear margin of normal tissue around it. If cancer cells are found at the edge of the removed tissue (a "positive margin"), patients may need a second operation (re-excision). Re-excision can delay further treatment, increase patient anxiety, and increase healthcare costs. To help assess margins during surgery, surgeons use specimen imaging. Standard practice involves two-dimensional (2D) specimen mammography, usually performed in the radiology department. This requires temporary transfer of the specimen out of the operating theatre and provides limited depth information. The MOZART study is evaluating whether three-dimensional (3D) digital breast tomosynthesis, performed in the operating theatre using the Mozart system, improves margin assessment compared to standard 2D specimen mammography. Patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery at Beaumont Hospital who agree to participate will be randomly assigned (like flipping a coin) to one of two groups: Standard 2D specimen mammography (current standard practice), or 3D digital breast tomosynthesis performed in theatre. In both groups, the operating surgeon will review the images during surgery and decide whether additional tissue needs to be removed. The final margin status will be determined by routine laboratory analysis after surgery. The main goal of this study is to compare the rate of positive margins between the two imaging methods. Other outcomes include the need for additional surgery, operating time, and overall workflow efficiency. The results of this study may help determine whether intraoperative 3D imaging improves surgical outcomes and reduces the need for re-excision in patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery.

Participants needed: 314
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: FemaleType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Apr 3, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Female patients [+6]

Evidence of metastatic (stage IV) breast cancer [+4]

Status: Recruiting

SURVEY-CNS: A Feasibility Study of Randomising Women and Men With HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer to Central Nervous System Surveillance Versus No Surveillance

SURVEY-CNS is a feasibility study evaluating whether women and men with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer can be successfully recruited and randomised to a strategy of central nervous system (CNS) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) surveillance versus standard of care (no routine CNS surveillance). Patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer have a high risk of developing brain metastases. Brain metastases can cause significant symptoms, including headache, nausea, seizures, visual disturbance, motor dysfunction, and cognitive or psychological changes. Although new HER2-directed therapies have improved systemic disease control, CNS progression remains common and is associated with reduced quality of life and survival. Currently, routine brain imaging is not recommended in asymptomatic patients. Brain imaging is typically performed only when neurological symptoms develop. Observational data suggest that patients diagnosed with asymptomatic brain metastases may have better outcomes than those diagnosed after symptoms occur. However, it is not known whether a surveillance strategy is feasible or acceptable to patients. All participants in this study will undergo a baseline contrast-enhanced brain MRI. Patients without evidence of CNS metastases on the baseline scan will be randomised (1:1) to either: CNS surveillance with repeat brain MRI at 6 and 12 months, or No routine surveillance imaging (standard of care), with imaging only if clinically indicated. The primary objective is to determine whether more than 30% of eligible patients approached agree to undergo screening and randomisation. The study will approach up to 193 patients and will be considered feasible if 69 patients consent to screening with intent to randomise. Secondary objectives include: Determining the proportion of patients with previously undetected (occult) CNS metastases at baseline; Determining the incidence of occult CNS metastases during surveillance; Recording symptomatic CNS presentations; Describing management of CNS metastases, including surgery or radiotherapy. Participants will be followed for 14 months from baseline.

Participants needed: 69
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Mar 31, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Age ≥18 years [+10]

Prior history of brain metastases [+7]

Status: Recruiting

A Prospective Study of the Genomic Landscape of Central Nervous System Disease Secondary to Breast Cancer Utilising Cell-free DNA Derived From Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

The PRIMROSE CSF Study aims to study cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in patients with breast cancer that has spread to the brain (brain metastasis) or the lining surrounding the brain (leptomeningeal disease). Research into breast cancer that has spread to the brain or the lining of the brain is limited due to difficulty in obtaining brain tissue containing cancer cells. Such tissue is typically only available when tumours are removed, which does not occur in all patients. Evidence indicates an increasing number of patients with breast cancer are developing disease that spreads to the brain or the lining of the brain as treatments improve. The PRIMROSE CSF Study aims to improve understanding of breast cancers that spread to the brain or brain lining by collecting and analysing the fluid that circulates around the brain and comparing these samples with other cancer and blood samples. Cancer cells that have spread to the brain or its lining shed genetic material into the surrounding fluid. Collection of this fluid enables purification of genetic material released by breast cancer cells. This approach allows examination of the genetic profile of breast cancer cells affecting the brain or its lining without the need for surgery. Differences between the original cancer and metastatic disease in the brain can then be analysed. This research will support improved understanding of why certain breast cancers spread to the brain and contribute to the development of new treatments for breast cancer that has spread to the brain or the lining of the brain.

Participants needed: 69
Trial details
Age: 18-99Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Mar 31, 2026Locations: 1Duration: 1 Year
Eligibility criteria

Male or female. [+4]

Where the investigator considers it unsafe to undertake a lumbar puncture or per... [+2]

Status: Recruiting

Optimal Mammography View Sequencing in Women With a History of Breast Cancer Undergoing Surveillance Mammography

This prospective, single-centre, parallel-group randomised controlled trial evaluates the optimal sequencing of mammography views in women with a history of breast cancer undergoing surveillance mammography. Women treated with breast-conserving surgery within the previous five years will be randomised 1:1:1:1 to one of four mammography view sequencing groups. The primary objective is to compare patient-reported pain and satisfaction across sequencing groups. Secondary objectives include comparison of image quality (PGMI scoring), compression force, and breast thickness. A total of 400 participants will be enrolled at Beaumont Hospital Breast Care Centre over 2.5 years.

Participants needed: 400
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: FemaleType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Mar 2, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Not listed

Status: Recruiting

The PHARO Trial: The Incidence of Para-conduit Hernia With Closure of Hiatus Versus the Standard Approach in Robotic Oesophagectomy - A Randomised Controlled Pilot Trial

Para-conduit hernia is a recognised complication following minimally invasive and robotic oesophagectomy. It may present as an incidental radiological finding or as a symptomatic hernia requiring urgent surgical intervention. There is currently no standardised approach to hiatal management during robotic oesophagectomy. The PHARO trial is a single-centre, randomised controlled pilot study evaluating whether routine hiatal closure with omentopexy and thoracic fixation of the left crus reduces the incidence of para-conduit hernia compared to the standard approach of no closure or partial closure. Eligible patients undergoing robotic oesophagectomy for non-metastatic oesophageal cancer at Beaumont Hospital will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to: Standard hiatal management (no closure or partial closure), or Hiatal closure with omentopexy and thoracic fixation of the left crus. Participants will undergo routine postoperative clinical and radiological surveillance. The primary outcome is the incidence of para-conduit hernia within one year following surgery. Secondary outcomes include dysphagia scores, patient-reported outcomes, and 30-day postoperative morbidity. This pilot study will enrol 40 participants (20 per group) to inform feasibility and future multi-centre expansion.

Participants needed: 40
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Feb 23, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Not listed

Status: Recruiting

Pre-Operative Nurse-Led Education With Direct Physiotherapy Referral to Reduce Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a common complication following radical prostatectomy and can significantly impact quality of life. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is recommended to reduce post-operative incontinence; however, referral pathways and patient engagement vary. The PRO-ACT trial is a single-centre, parallel-group randomised controlled trial evaluating whether a structured pre-operative education bundle combined with direct physiotherapy referral reduces urinary incontinence following radical prostatectomy compared to standard care. Eligible men undergoing radical prostatectomy at Beaumont Hospital will be randomised 1:1 to either: Standard of care (educational video and recommendation for physiotherapy with patient-initiated referral), or A structured pre-operative intervention including a one-to-one ANP-led education session, scheduled post-operative follow-up call, and direct referral to supervised pelvic floor physiotherapy. The primary outcome is mean urinary pad usage per 24 hours at 3 months post-operatively. Secondary outcomes include time to continence, quality of life, physiotherapy adherence, and postoperative complication rates.

Participants needed: 80
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: MaleType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Feb 23, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Not listed

Status: Recruiting

OT SMILE: Occupational Therapy Group Intervention for Primary Brain Tumour Patients

People diagnosed with primary brain tumours often experience significant symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive changes, anxiety, and reduced ability to carry out everyday activities. These symptoms may be related to the tumour itself or to ongoing systemic anti-cancer treatment. In Ireland, access to structured rehabilitation and symptom management programmes for this population is limited. The OT SMILE study is evaluating whether a structured occupational therapy-led group programme can improve quality of life and daily functioning in adults with primary brain tumours receiving active treatment. Participants attending Beaumont Hospital who meet eligibility criteria and provide informed consent will be randomly assigned (like flipping a coin) to one of two groups: A six-week occupational therapy group programme (OT SMILE), or Usual care, consisting of written lifestyle management information. The OT SMILE programme consists of six weekly 90-minute group sessions delivered by occupational therapists. Sessions focus on fatigue management, activity modification, cognitive strategies, relaxation techniques, goal setting, exercise, nutrition, and peer support. Participants in both groups will complete questionnaires before the programme begins and again after six weeks. These questionnaires measure quality of life, fatigue, and daily functioning. The main goal of the study is to determine whether the occupational therapy group programme improves health-related quality of life compared to usual care. The results may help inform supportive care services for people living with primary brain tumours.

Participants needed: 96
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Feb 23, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Not listed

Status: Recruiting

Randomised Trial of Dual Device Treatment Involving Drug-coated Balloon Angioplasty and Drug-eluting Stent Implantation Compared to Single Device Treatments in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus

Purpose of this study: The purpose of the study is to find out whether using a drug coated balloon in combination with a drug-eluting stent is better than the standard practice of using either device on its own. This study is specifically looking at patients with diabetes who have coronary artery disease. This means that their arteries become restricted or blocked, and these restrictions or blockages are called lesions. The study will look at diabetic patients undergoing treatment for lesions in segments of their coronary arteries that have not previously been treated with stents. These are called 'de novo' lesions. The treatment being investigated: In this study, we are comparing two devices, either used together or on their own to treat coronary artery disease. These devices are commercially available in Europe and carry the mark. This study is being carried out to compare the effectiveness of combining the two devices or using them individually: * Pantera® Lux® Paclitaxel Drug Coated Balloon, abbreviated Pantera® Lux® (DCB) A drug coated balloon is a balloon which is covered by an anti-proliferative drug. * Orsiro® biodegradable polymer Sirolimus Eluting Stent Orsiro® (DES) A stent is a short, wire mesh tube that acts like a scaffold to keep your artery open. A drug eluting stent is coated with medication that reduces the risk of the artery becoming blocked again. Both drug-eluting stents and drug-coated balloons are used routinely for the treatment of 'de novo' coronary artery disease in Europe. How will the study be carried out? This study is being conducted in 4 hospitals across Ireland. We aim to recruit 120 participants s in this study. If you agree to participate in this study and sign the informed consent form, you will be asked to participate in the screening process, which will determine if you meet the conditions to participate in the study. You will be "randomised" into one of the 3 study groups. Randomisation means that you are put into a group by chance (similarly to the roll of a dice). Neither you nor your doctor can choose the group you will be in. You will not know which group you were placed in until the end of the study. However, your doctor will know which study group you were placed in. * 40 patients will be treated with Pantera® Lux® (Drug Coated Balloon) only * 40 patients will be treated with Orsiro® (Drug Eluting Stent) only * 40 patients will be treated with a combination of both Pantera® Lux® (Drug Coated Balloon) and Orsiro® (Drug Eluting Stent). If you agree to participate in the study you will be invited to come back for a check-up angiogram 6 months after your procedure to make sure that the treatment has been a success. This is sometimes done in normal clinical practice, but it is not done routinely. You will not be charged for this additional test.

Participants needed: 120
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Dec 24, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Patients with acute or chronic coronary syndrome [+8]

Lesions located at the left main coronary artery. [+13]

Status: Recruiting

Laparoscopic-Assisted Transversus Abdominus Plane Block Versus Intraperitoneal Irrigation of Local Anesthetic for Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

This study is being performed to investigate whether the administration of local anaesthetic into the muscles in the abdomen or onto squirting the local anaesthetic onto the liver following keyhole gallbladder surgery is more beneficial in reducing pain post-operatively. Keyhole gallbladder surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia (or while the patient is 'fully asleep'), however doctors use other pain relief types to reduce pain after the operation. One of these options is local anaesthetic, which involves the injection of an medication into or onto the part of the body which has been operated on. The reason for doing this is to reduce the pain felt by the patient in the part if the body where the operation occurred. The best way of using these medications remain unclear. The local anaesthetic being used in the study is fully approved for use in Ireland and the drug itself is not being tested. In other words, the drug is not an experimental drug. Local anaesthetic drugs are given in different ways in patients who have just had the keyhole surgery on their gall bladder (this is the surgery that you are about to have). Therefore, the aim of this study is to compare two ways of giving patients these local anaesthetic medications following key-hole gallbladder surgery. These include (1) injecting the medication into the skin at the surgical wounds and squirting it onto the liver (where the gallbladder has been removed from), or (2) injecting the medication into the skin at the surgical wounds and into the muscles in the abdomen (known formally as a transversus abdominus plane block).

Participants needed: 144
Trial details
Phase: Phase 1Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Aug 14, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Adult patients aged 18 years or older will be considered for recruitment into th...

Patients failing to meet the above inclusion criteria.

Status: Not yet recruiting

The ACHILLS Trial; Application of Cerament in Heel Infection for Lower Limb Salvage

The ACHILLS Trial is a multicentre randomised controlled feasibility study comparing partial calcanectomy with and without the use of an antibiotic-impregnated bone graft substitute (Cerament G) for treating calcaneal osteomyelitis, specifically on wound healing rates, re-infection, and overall efficacy in a sample of 30 patients over a one-year period.

Participants needed: 30
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Aug 3, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

18 and over [+3]

Patients unfit for surgery [+6]

Status: Recruiting

A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial of an Online Exercise Programme for Adults With Cerebral Palsy

Adults with cerebral palsy (CP) often face challenges in accessing exercise programmes that are appropriate for their needs. Barriers such as limited mobility, a lack of tailored options, and restricted access to physiotherapy services can make participation difficult. Exercise is important for improving physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. However, many adults with CP do not have regular opportunities to take part in structured physical activity. This study aims to investigate whether an online exercise programme can serve as an effective and accessible alternative. The main aim of the study is to assess the feasibility of delivering an online exercise programme for adults with CP. Key areas of focus will include demand, implementation, practicality, adaptability, acceptability, and potential benefits to physical, mental, and social well-being. A total of 60 adults with CP will be recruited and randomly assigned to one of two groups (30 participants per group). One group will complete an 8-week online exercise and education programme. The second group will receive the same educational materials during the study and will be provided with information about the home exercise programme after the 8-week intervention period. Data will be collected on attendance, completion rates, engagement with exercises, and any reported adverse events. Health-related surveys will be completed before and after the programme to assess any changes. In addition, a selected group of participants from the intervention group will take part in interviews to provide feedback on their experiences. Findings from this study may support the development of accessible, effective, and person-centred online exercise programmes for adults with CP. Results may help improve future programme design and contribute to better care and support for adults with CP in Ireland.

Participants needed: 60
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Aug 3, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Adults aged 18 and over with cerebral palsy (CP) residing on the island of Irela... [+3]

Individuals with severe intellectual disability where sufficient adaptations can... [+1]

Status: Recruiting

The Lung Health Check Pilot

This study aims to test if it is feasible to introduce lung cancer screening in Ireland. People within a certain age group, who smoke or who smoked in the past, are at a greater risk of developing lung cancer. They can also develop chronic lung conditions that can affect their long-term health. In Ireland, about 2,690 people are diagnosed with Lung Cancer every year. Unfortunately, 2 out of every 3 people diagnosed with lung cancer die per year. The goal of this study is to try to screen for lung cancer in people before they have symptoms associated with the disease. We aim to do this by selecting people based on their age, whether they have smoked in the past or currently smoke as well as other relevant factors. People who take part in this study will have an assessment of how their lungs work and a low-dose CT scan. This is called a lung health check. The goal of the low-dose CT scan is to pick up lung cancer before it becomes symptomatic, and at an earlier stage. This scan uses a very low dose of radiation. Unfortunately, without early detection, such as is the goal of this trial, 8 out of 10 people who go on to develop lung cancer will have advanced lung cancer when it is discovered, where outcomes tend to be poor. The earlier detection of lung cancer has a greater potential for treatment. Current international recommendations suggest carrying out these scans in the community rather than in a hospital. Therefore, we aim to deliver these lung health checks using a mobile unit in the community. This study aims to test if we will successfully pick up lung cancer earlier by doing community-based 'lung health check's using mobile units in North Dublin and the North East, among people of a certain age and smoking history.

Participants needed: 2,183
Trial details
Age: 55-74Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Aug 1, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

55 - 74 years of age [+6]

Participant-reported history of chest CT in the last 12 months [+5]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Gastrin, Anti-helicobacter Pylori and Pepsinogen Diagnostic Accuracy Study

This research study is taking place to find out if a simple blood test can diagnose inflammation in the stomach. Prolonged inflammation in the stomach can lead to Ulcers and even Cancer in the long run. Currently, a camera test is needed to identify inflammation in the stomach. The method being tested in this study may be able to do this using just a pinprick of blood. If this test proves to be good at diagnosing inflammation in the stomach with just a pinprick of blood, it may be used in the future to decide who actually needs to have a full camera test done or not. This could really improve the waiting lists for these camera tests in the future. It may also mean that we can identify problems at an earlier stage.

Participants needed: 240
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Jul 11, 2025
Eligibility criteria

Patients presenting for a routine diagnostic gastroscopy.

Patients presenting for a therapeutic procedure such as dilations or stenting.

Status: Not yet recruiting

Frailty Intervention in Postoperative Hip Fracture Inpatients

Hip fracture is a big health concern in older adults, and can lead to increased risk of death, reduced level of independence \& mobility, reduced quality of life, and higher likelihood of admission to nursing homes. Frailty is a medical condition associated with ageing that results in a reduced ability to do daily tasks. A frail older adult is also less able to recover well from conditions that may affect their wellbeing (for example, infections, falls resulting in injuries or hospital admissions). Frailty is common in older adults with hip fractures. There has been increasing research showing that frailty can be slowed down and improved by a combination of nutritional supplementation and exercise. However, most of the research in this area has been in frail older adults living at home or in nursing homes. The exercise or nutritional programs in these studies tend to be carried out over weeks or months. There are very few studies looking at older adults in hospital and how exercise and nutrition help with frailty over shorter periods of time, even more so in patients who have sustained an injury. There is, however, very little research in hospital based frailty programs in older patients who have suffered major trauma. It is well known that standing up and starting to walk soon after a hip fracture improves time to recovery, reduces hospital length of stay and death. Hence, physiotherapy on the first day after hip fracture surgery is now recommended. However, there needs to be more research to aid in developing physiotherapy and exercise programs that are safe and doable in the care of hip fracture patients despite limited resources in our healthcare system. Similarly, although malnutrition is common in frail older adults with hip fractures, the benefits of nutritional supplementation in these patients is not fully understood. It is known that having a hip fracture puts a person at risk of muscle breakdown and increasing protein intake is recommended to help reduce this risk. Research on exercise and nutrition based frailty programs specific to hip fracture patients is strongly needed, specifically the development of that are doable and safe in the hospital setting that can help improve outcomes in hip fracture patients after surgery. The investigators believe that a multicomponent exercise and nutrition based frailty program will be safe, doable and acceptable in frail older adults after hip fracture surgery.

Participants needed: 50
Trial details
Age: 65+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Jun 18, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Older adults >/= 65 [+6]

Medically unstable (NEWS >3, unless a higher cutoff is stipulated by the primary... [+16]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Use of Different Enteral Feeds to Impact on Chyle Leaks in Oesophagectomy

Oesophagectomy (surgery to remove a cancerous portion of the oesophagus or gullet) is the cornerstone of treating oesophageal cancer. In recent years, minimally invasive techniques, including robotic assisted oesophagectomy have been introduced. These techniques reduce stress on patients, reduce pain, reduce the length of stay in hospital after their operation, without compromising cancer outcomes (and in some cases improving cancer outcomes). Any surgery carries the risk of complications. One complication that may arise with oesophagectomy is an increase in chyle leaks. Chyle is a fluid produced by the body that helps transport nutrients from the bowel to the bloodstream to allow them to be absorbed and processed. One of the channels that transports chyle, the thoracic duct, is divided as part of an oesophagectomy. Although it is clipped to reduce the risk of chyle leak, this may still occur, in up to 25% of operations. If a chyle leak occurs, a drainage tube needs to remain in the chest for a number of days, there may be alterations in the use of feeding techniques, and in a small portion of cases, there may need to be an operation to stop a leak, or a procedure in the radiology department. The goal of this study is to see whether use of a different type of post-operative feed (medium chain triglyceride or MCT feeds) can reduce the rate of chyle leak. This is already used to treat chyle leaks, and the question is whether using this as the routine post-operative feed can reduce rates of chyle leakage.

Participants needed: 160
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: May 11, 2025
Eligibility criteria

All adults aged over 18 years undergoing MIO or RAMIO for oesophageal cancer (ad...

Patients will be excluded if [+3]

Status: Not yet recruiting

MAintAin Activity in Arthritis: A Feasibility Study

Best practice guidelines across the world always recommend those living with arthritis to be physically active. Research shows that being active can help people living with arthritis to do the things that they want to do for longer, reduce pain, improve quality of life and protect against getting other health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease and cancer. Whilst various exercise programmes support people with arthritis to be active most individuals reduce their level of PA after completion of a prescribed programme. Staying active in the longer-term is more difficult and there is often a decrease in activity over time. Research has shown that exercise programmes helping people to become active, such as exercise classes, may not always have the right approach and focus during the programme to help people to stay active long-term. It is important to understand if people with arthritis can be supported to maintain their activity levels well in to the future. The investigators have already spoken to people living with arthritis, people involved in arthritis care and those involved in promoting physical activity. The research team brought their feedback and the scientific literature together and shaped a new intervention that suits the needs of people with arthritis and helps them to continue to be physically active. The investiagtors will now ask people living with arthritis to try out the new intervention. Participants will receive up to five coaching sessions that aim to support people with arthritis to maintain their PA after exiting a structured exercise programme. Sessions will be delivered within community venues in a group setting by a trained provider. Sessions will last approximately between 60 and 90 minutes and will be delivered over a period of approximately 4-months. Participants may receive a smartwatch with an inbuilt step counter such as Fitbit and diary to record their daily steps or physical activity minutes. The diary will also be used to record physical activity maintenance goals, complete action plans and self-monitor progress to build new habits. Participants can continue to use their own smartwatch if they have one. The research team are interested to know if the programme has any effect on the amount of activity people do over time as well as looking at factors which can help with the understanding of 'why' or 'why not' a PA intervention may have worked.

Participants needed: 30
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Feb 24, 2025
Eligibility criteria

Not listed

Status: Not yet recruiting

Rehab in Mild Stable DCM: Feasibility RCT Comparing Structured Rehabilitation to Clinical Surveillance

The goal of this feasibility RCT is to establish the feasibility of undertaking a RCT investigating the effectiveness of a multi component structured rehabilitation intervention aiming at reducing physical disability in people with mild stable Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy. The main question it will answer are what is the incidence of mild stable DCM in the neurosurgical OPD clinics, what is the eligibility rate and participate rate of those eligible. It will also investigate the acceptability of the intervention to both participants and clinicians and participant retention. Researchers will compare a structured rehabilitation intervention to clinical surveillance. The structured rehabilitation intervention will include education, a physical activity behavioural change intervention, cervical range of motion exercises, neck, upper limb and scapular strengthening exercises and task specific hand function training.

Participants needed: 24
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Jan 17, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

• Diagnosis of DCM (Clinical symptom of DCM +/- Upper motor neuron sign + imagin... [+2]

Patient or surgeon preference for urgent surgical decompression for progressive... [+4]

Status: Recruiting

Precision Diagnosis and Care for Families With Pulmonary Fibrosis in Ireland

This study aims to improve the understanding of how genes and the environment can influence and cause pulmonary fibrosis. By identifying the presence of genes and other factors that can put people at risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis, the influence these factors have on the progression of the disease can be studied. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the medical term given to a group of lung diseases affecting the same part of the lung, the interstitium, each with similar symptoms. In some of these diseases, inflammation leads to lung scarring, known as fibrosis. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is one of these diseases; it has a particular pattern on computed tomography (CT) scans. IPF is 'idiopathic' as it is not yet fully understood why it happens. It has a poor prognosis. The average survival time is three to five years after diagnosis. While new antifibrotic drugs offer hope of slowing disease progression, lung transplant is the only cure, and it comes with its significant risks. Although it is not fully understood what causes IPF, it is known that genetic factors significantly increase the risk of developing the disease. Up to a quarter (25%) of people with IPF with a family history appear to have a causative genetic variant. Familial-pulmonary-fibrosis (FPF), the term for people with at least one relative with IPF, may have worse disease when compared to those without a family history. However, this needs more research. Patients with specific genes, telomere-related gene variants, appear to have a greater risk of developing blood disorders from medications given to suppress the body's immune system after a lung transplant. Progressive pulmonary fibrosis is pulmonary fibrosis where there is irreversible worsening of the disease, worsening of lung function, respiratory symptoms and even early death. It is of growing importance regardless of the cause, whether it be idiopathic, familial or secondary to a connective tissue disease. ILD is increasingly recognised as a complication of connective tissue diseases. It is the leading cause of death in people with systemic sclerosis. The new antifibrotic drugs slow the progression of CTD-ILD. People with progressive pulmonary fibrosis who have a greater than 10% drop over one year in a measure of their lung function, called the forced vital capacity, benefit most from antifibrotic therapy. Early identification of people with progressive disease would allow the commencement of treatment quicker. At-home spirometry may be a way of identifying those who are worsening early. This study hypothesises that by improving knowledge of factors that affect disease behaviour and progression and assessing tools for the early identification of progressive disease, such as at-home spirometry and CT scan pattern determination by deep-learning analysis, we can provide 'precision' diagnosis and treatment. It is hoped that this improved understanding will help reduce the clinical risk for people with pulmonary fibrosis and their families. This study aims to recruit 300 patients: 100 with IPF, 100 with FPF, and 100 with CTD ILD. Each participant will be followed for one year. This observational study aims to help answer a number of questions: 1. What genetic variants cause people to develop ILD, and which increase a person's risk of developing ILD are present in the study population? 2. How does pulmonary fibrosis behave in people who have a family history of IPF compared to those who do not and in people with CTD-ILD? 3. Are different types of pulmonary fibrosis more progressive than others i.e. Is pulmonary fibrosis in those with a family history of pulmonary fibrosis more progressive than in those who do not have a family history? 4. Is the disease in those with a genetic variant known to cause ILD worse than in those who don't have a gene? 5. Can at-home spirometry help identify people at risk of progressive disease early? 6. Can deep-learning analysis (AI) be used to find CT scan patterns to predict when pulmonary fibrosis will worsen?

Participants needed: 300
Trial details
Age: 18-85Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Nov 22, 2024Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Able and willing to give written informed consent. [+4]

Currently participating in an interventional clinic trial. [+5]

Status: Recruiting

Implementation of a Standardized Algorithm for Coronary Calcification With Plaque Modification

In this study, the doctors will follow a set of rules that is called an algorithm. An algorithm is a step-by-step approach that doctors use to guide them when making decisions about the best way to treat their patients. Algorithms are useful because they help doctors decide on the best treatment approach based on the patient's individual circumstances and the best medical evidence available. The algorithm that is being used in this study is called a calcium modification algorithm and it will guide doctors when deciding on the best way to modify or break up the calcium in coronary arteries. In this study, we aim to prove that the calcium modification algorithm, described above, safely and effectively guides doctors on the best way to modify calcium in patients' coronary arteries. By doing so, it will help doctors in making decisions about patients' treatment during their procedure. It will also help standardise care for patients, so patients receive the same treatment no matter what hospital they are in or what doctor is treating them.

Participants needed: 500
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Royal College of Surgeons, IrelandUpdated: Nov 7, 2024Locations: 1Duration: 1 Year
Eligibility criteria

Documented myocardial ischaemia. [+4]

Patients with cardiogenic shock. [+6]