PICCOS: A clinical trial looking at a new way of delivering chemotherapy

What is the PICCOS trial about?

The PICCOS trial is a clinical trial studying a new way of delivering anti-cancer drugs, like chemotherapy.  Pressurised IntraPeritoneal Aerosolised Chemotherapy (PIPAC) delivers chemotherapy as a spray directly into the abdomen during keyhole surgery. 

This trial is looking at whether PIPAC works better than standard chemotherapy given through a drip. It is for people whose cancer has spread to the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum).

In the UK, this alternative way of delivering chemotherapy is only used in research. However, it has been used globally for several years. In 2021, NICE (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) looked at the data on how effective this method is. They decided that more research was needed before it could be approved and used more widely. This is why the PICCOS trial was set up. 

It is a randomised controlled trial (RCT). This means patients are randomly allocated into two groups by chance. One group has the normal chemotherapy treatment, and the other group gets the new style of treatment. 

The results can then be compared to decide which option works best. They will also be looking at whether patients who have this type of treatment have a better quality of life than people who have standard chemotherapy.

Who is running the PICCOS trial?

This trial is being run by a Welsh team, led by chief investigators Dr Sadie Jones and Professor Jared Torkington and supported by Cardiff's University’s Centre for Trials Researchand Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Who is the trial for?

This trial is for people over 16 with one of the below types of cancer, who have visible peritoneal lesions on CT imaging and have good overall health:

• Epithelial ovarian cancer (including fallopian tube cancer and primary peritoneal cancer) that is platinum resistant
• Bowel (colorectal) cancer
• Stomach (gastric) cancer

Where is the trial running?

The PICCOS trial is open for recruitment in the areas of England and Wales listed below. However, the team is working hard to bring this to as many areas as possible, so if your nearest location is not on the list, it’s worth checking with the team.

You can contact the PICCOS clinical research team to learn more about the clinical trial. Get in touch with Rebecca Hamilton at piccos@cardiff.ac.uk.

Where is the trial running?

When is it open until?

The trial is open until October 2026.

How do I find out more?

You can read more about the details of the study here.

To learn more about ovarian cancer treatments, visit the treatment section of our website. It explains the different types of treatment and how they work.

You can also visit our “Living with ovarian cancer” section for support, guidance, and information to help you manage life during and after treatment.

If you are thinking about taking part in the study, speak to your oncologist. They can talk you through your options and help you decide what’s right for you.