Our extensive research facilities have helped us to achieve world class clinical results. We have a substantial clinical and laboratory research portfolio, with a number of major peer-reviewed grant-funded programmes and several project grants supporting clinical and basic biological research. Reducing incidence and mortality In addition to clinical research and randomised controlled trials, our research themes are the: genetics of colorectal cancer development of screening technologies for colorectal cancer chemoprevention of colorectal cancer All of these themes focus on the ultimate aim of reducing the incidence and mortality from large bowel malignancy. Our research interests also include: enhanced recovery after surgery surgery for incontinence surgery for inflammatory bowel disease We also have considerable strength in surgical nutrition. Current studies Our clinical research portfolio is growing with the recent establishment of the unit in its current format. We initiated and have contributed substantially to setting up a Scotland-wide randomised controlled trial of prevention of postoperative relapse of Crohn's disease using six-mercaptopurine. Ongoing studies include an evaluation of early rehabilitation after major colorectal surgery, and a number of other clinical studies and trials within a strong audit environment. Results We have published and presented results of clinical activities at national and international meetings and results of both emergency and elective surgery in the unit are comparable not only with the best in the United Kingdom but in the world. Indeed, there are substantial differences in mortality from large bowel cancer, which have been detected through systematic data accrual in the central NHS records, showing that bowel cancer outcomes in Lothian are a match and even exceed the best in the country. Related Links Colon Cancer Genetics Group This article was published on 2024-02-06
