Detecting hidden pancreatic cancer during surgery using special imaging techniques

Highly Sensitive Detection of Occult Pancreatic Cancer Using Intraoperative Molecular Imaging

['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11089460

This study is testing a new way to find small pancreatic cancer tumors that regular scans might miss, using a special dye before surgery to help doctors spot and remove all the cancerous tissue, which could lead to better outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11089460 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the detection of small, hidden pancreatic cancer tumors that may not be visible through traditional imaging methods. Patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who are eligible for surgery will receive a fluorescently labeled antibody before their operation. During surgery, advanced imaging technology will be used to identify tiny tumor foci that could lead to cancer recurrence if not removed. The goal is to enhance surgical outcomes by ensuring all cancerous tissues are detected and removed.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who are scheduled for surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with pancreatic cancer who are not eligible for surgery or those with advanced metastatic disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates for patients undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer by ensuring complete removal of all cancerous tissues.

How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches using intraoperative imaging techniques have shown promise in other cancer types, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for pancreatic cancer.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Detection, cancer metastasis, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.