Improving recovery after liver surgery in Hong Kong patients

The Impact of Fast-track Perioperative Program on the Clinical and Immunological Outcomes After Liver Resection in Hong Kong Chinese Patients: A Prospective Randomized Trial

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT03223818

This study tests a new recovery program for liver cancer surgery to see if it helps patients heal faster and stay in the hospital for a shorter time.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment94 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT03223818 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of a fast-track perioperative program on recovery outcomes for patients undergoing liver resection due to liver cancer. The program aims to reduce postoperative complications and hospital stay, which have historically been high in this patient population. By implementing enhanced recovery protocols, the study seeks to optimize surgical and anesthetic management, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. The research builds on previous findings from colorectal surgery, adapting successful strategies to liver surgery, where such studies have been limited.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 to 70 who are undergoing elective liver resection and have a good overall health status.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgery or those with severe physical disabilities may not benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce recovery time and hospital costs for liver cancer patients undergoing surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While similar fast-track programs have shown success in colorectal surgery, studies specifically focused on liver resection are limited, making this approach relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. All consecutive patients undergoing elective liver resection (open and laparoscopic).
2. Age of patients between 18 and 70 years.
3. Patients with American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grading I-II.
4. Patients with no severe physical disability.
5. Patients who require no assistance on the activities of daily living.
6. Informed consent available will be recruited.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients undergoing emergency surgery.
2. Patients who had received pre-operative portal vein embolization.
3. Patients who are expected to receive concomitant procedures other than cholecystectomy.
4. Pregnant ladies and patients who are mentally incapable of written consent will be excluded.
5. Patient who had previous history of Hepato-biliary and pancreatic surgery.
6. Patient who had chronic pain syndrome.

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 Liver CancerLiverDigestive system
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.