Comparing two methods for managing pain in inoperable pancreatic cancer

Upfront Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Celiac Ganglion Neurolysis Versus Conventional Step-up Approach for Patients With Painful, Inoperable Pancreatic Cancer

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT06160323

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment94 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong, Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT06160323 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer who experience significant tumor pain.

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.

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 performed: Previous studies have shown that EUS-guided neurolysis techniques can effectively manage pain in similar patient populations, indicating a promising approach.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Pancreatic Cancer Non-resectableTumor PancreasPain Cancertumor painendoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac ganglion neurolysis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.