Comparing two methods for managing pain in inoperable pancreatic cancer
Official title: Upfront Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Celiac Ganglion Neurolysis Versus Conventional Step-up Approach for Patients With Painful, Inoperable Pancreatic Cancer
Run by Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT06160323 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing two different pain management methods for people with inoperable pancreatic cancer to see which one helps them feel better and improves their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 94 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong, Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 10, 2023 |
| Main results expected | July 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | May 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06160323 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer who experience significant tumor pain.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are already on opioids for pain control or have a life expectancy of less than three months may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of upfront endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac ganglion neurolysis (CGN) and celiac plexus neurolysis (CPN) compared to a conventional step-up approach for managing pain in patients with inoperable pancreatic cancer. Patients experiencing significant tumor-related pain will be enrolled and assessed for pain relief and quality of life. The study aims to determine the optimal timing for these interventions to maximize pain control and minimize reliance on opioids. By focusing on patients with a Karnofsky performance status of 60 or higher, the study seeks to identify those who can benefit most from these pain management techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve pain management and quality of life for patients with inoperable pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that EUS-guided neurolysis techniques can effectively manage pain in similar patient populations, indicating a promising approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age \>= 18 years old 2. Diagnosed to have inoperable pancreatic cancer 3. Presence of tumor pain (centrally located, constant, with no other obvious cause) with a VAS \>= 3 4. Karnofsky performance status \>= 60 5. Planned for EUS examination and/or biopsy of the pancreatic tumor Exclusion Criteria: 1. Allergy to bupivacaine, or alcohol 2. Potentially operable after neoadjuvant therapy 3. Expected survival of less than 3 months 4. Patient who is already on opioids for pain control 5. Previous percutaneous or EUS-guided CGN/ CPN 6. Recurrent pancreatic tumors after operation 7. Uncorrectable coagulopathy 8. Inability or unwillingness to provide informed consent
Where it's running
-
Prince of Wales Hospital
Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Shannon Melissa Chan
- Email: shannonchan@surgery.cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 852-35052627
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.