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RecruitingLast updated: 22 January 2026

RAVAL: This study is comparing two types of lung cancer surgery to see which approach helps people recover faster and feel better after their operationRobotic vs Thoracoscopic Surgical Resection for Early-Stage Lung cancer: An Australian Randomised Controlled Trial

Trial purpose

Medical clipboardCancer treatment; Side effect and wellbeing

Tumor type

Lung Cancers Lung cancer

Age

People18+

Trial acronym

RAVAL

Clinical summary

Summary

This research study is looking at two different types of keyhole surgery used to treat early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. The goal is to find out if one method leads to better patient-reported quality of life and other health outcomes.

You may be eligible to join if you are 18 years or older, have been diagnosed with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, and are suitable for keyhole surgery to remove your cancer. Your doctor will be able to check your lung scans to see if this type of surgery is right for you.

If you decide to take part, you will be randomly assigned to receive one of two types of surgery:

  • Robotic-assisted keyhole surgery (RTS): This method uses robotic tools and 3D imaging to help the surgeon remove the cancer. The surgery usually takes up to 3 hours.
  • Video-assisted keyhole surgery (VATS): This method uses a small camera and video screen to guide the surgeon. It also takes up to 3 hours.

Both surgeries are standard treatments and are done through small cuts in the chest. After surgery, you'll stay in hospital for a short time so doctors can monitor your recovery.

The research team will review your medical records before surgery and follow your progress for up to 5 years afterward. This helps them understand how each surgery affects recovery and long-term health.

Researchers hope this study will sho wif one type of surgery leads to better outcomes - like less pain or faster recovery. If so, it could help guide future treatment choices for people with lung cancer.

 

Conditions

This trial is treating people with Stage I, II or IIIa non-small cell lung cancer who are eligible for surgery

Eligibility

Inclusion

• Age 18 years and above
• Clinical stage I, II or IIIa non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
• Candidates for minimally invasive pulmonary surgery, as determined by the operating surgeon.

Exclusion

• Not a candidate for minimally invasive lobectomy

Inclusion

  • Your cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic) or has grown into nearby parts of the body (locally advanced).
  • Your cancer has not spread to other parts of the body (localised).
Message

Clinical trials have complex eligibility criteria, and other criteria may apply for this trial. Ask your doctor about whether this trial could be right for you.

Participating hospitals

Recruiting hospitals

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More information

Trial Identifiers

Information on this page is partially produced from ANZCTR *. View further details about this trial on the registry via the links below:

Trial sponsor

St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne

Scientific Title

Robotic vs Thoracoscopic Surgical Resection for Early-Stage Lung cancer: An Australian Randomised Controlled Trial

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