EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation for pancreatic tumors

Multi-center Prospective Study on EUS-guided Radiofrequency Ablation for Solid Pancreatic Neoplasms

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT03218345

This study is testing a new heat-based treatment for pancreatic tumors in patients who can't have surgery to see if it is safe and effective.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT03218345 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the safety and effectiveness of EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating solid pancreatic neoplasms in patients who are not suitable for surgery. The procedure involves using a high-frequency alternating current to generate heat, leading to tissue destruction and potential tumor reduction. Conducted at multiple high-volume international institutions, the study aims to assess adverse events, technical success, and survival rates among participants. Patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors or pancreatic ductal carcinoma under 5 cm will be recruited for this innovative treatment approach.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors or pancreatic ductal carcinoma under 5 cm who are deemed unsuitable for surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with coagulopathy, pregnancy, severe mental conditions, or those unwilling to participate in follow-up assessments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a minimally invasive option for patients with pancreatic tumors who cannot undergo surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that EUS-guided RFA is feasible and effective in treating solid tumors, indicating potential success for this approach in pancreatic neoplasms.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years-old or above
* Suffering from pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor or pancreatic ductal carcinoma (\<5cm in largest diameter) that was confirmed by fine needle aspiration cytology
* Unsuitable for surgery, due to one (or more) of the following items:

  * ASA score \> II\*
  * An alternative advanced malignancy
  * Unsuitable for surgery upon expert's opinion for any other reason
* Healthy individuals who are not keen for surgical resection
* Eligible for endoscopic intervention
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Coagulopathy (international normalized ratio \>1.3, partial thromboplastin time greater than twice that of control), platelet count \<50,000x103/uL
* Pregnancy
* Patients with a poor mental condition or mental retardation, unable to understand the nature and possible consequences of the study
* Patients unwilling to undergo follow-up assessments
* Patients with liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension and/or gastric varices.

Where this trial is running

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 NeoplasmsEUS-guided RFApancreatic cainterventional EUS
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.