Study of Oxaliplatin/5-FU/Leucovorin Plus Vatalanib Versus Oxaliplatin/5-FU/Leucovorin in Patients With Metastatic Colorectal Cancer.

Inclusion criteria: * Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer coming for initial chemotherapy * Documented metastatic colorectal cancer * WHO Performance Status of 0, 1, or 2 * Measurable tumors * Adequate hematologic status, liver and kidney function * Life expectancy greater than 12 weeks * Written informed consent obtained Exclusion criteria: * History or presence of central nervous system disease * Patients with a history of another primary cancer within 5 years * Prior chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer * Prior full field radiotherapy within 4 weeks or limited field radiotherapy within 2 weeks before entry to study * Major surgery within 4 weeks or minor surgery within 2 weeks before entry to study * Investigational drugs within 4 weeks before entry to study * Prior therapy with anti-VEGF agents * Any prior therapy with oxaliplatin or allergy to platinum-containing drugs * Peripheral neuropathy with functional impairment * Female patients who are pregnant or breast feeding * Any severe or uncontrolled medical conditions which could prevent participation in study * Patients who are taking Coumadin Other protocol-defined inclusion / exclusion criteria may apply