Evaluating pancreatic cysts using advanced biopsy techniques

Evaluation of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions Via EUS-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration With and Without Micro Forceps Biopsies: A Multi-Center Prospective Randomized Study

Not applicable Interventional University of Colorado, Denver · NCT04404101

This study is testing if adding a special biopsy tool to a common procedure can help doctors better diagnose pancreatic cysts in adults.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 89 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Colorado, Denver Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Irvine, California and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04404101 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to improve the diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) by comparing two methods: endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) with and without the addition of micro forceps biopsies (EUS-MFB). PCLs are often found incidentally during imaging and can vary in their potential for malignancy, making accurate diagnosis crucial. The study will involve adult patients with cysts larger than 20 mm, assessing the effectiveness of EUS-MFB in providing histological information alongside traditional fluid analysis. The goal is to enhance diagnostic accuracy and better inform management decisions for patients with PCLs.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old with pancreatic cysts larger than 20 mm that are appropriate for fine needle aspiration.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those under 18 years old, those with certain blood disorders, or those whose cysts are deemed unsafe for aspiration.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses of pancreatic cysts, potentially reducing unnecessary surgeries and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While few small retrospective reports have explored the use of micro forceps biopsies for pancreatic cysts, this approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in larger studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients \>18 years old
* Cysts \> 20 mm in size deemed appropriate for FNA by the endoscopist, based on clinical presentation, radiologic imaging features, associated solid mass or nodules, and patient anxiety about the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria:

* Age \<18 years
* Inability to provide informed consent
* Thrombocytopenia (Platelets \< 50,000) or coagulopathy (INR \> 1.8)
* Pregnancy
* Post-surgical anatomy where the cyst is not accessible for FNA
* EUS findings suggesting that cyst FNA would be unsafe (e.g. intervening blood vessels)
* EUS appearance suggesting FNA is not indicated (e.g. cyst smaller than prior radiologic imaging, cyst not seen, EUS suggestive of serous cystadenoma)

Where this trial is running

Irvine, California and 2 other locations

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 Cyst
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.