Local anesthesia thoracoscopy for diagnosing pleural effusion
Official title: Local Anesthesia Thoracoscopy as a First Line Approach in the Diagnosis of Suspected Malignant Pleural Effusion: FLAT Trial.
Run by National and Kapodistrian University of Athens · NCT06946498 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using local anesthesia during a thoracoscopy can help diagnose suspected cancer-related fluid buildup in the chest faster and more comfortably than standard tests.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Athens, Attica) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 23, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | April 27, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06946498 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are patients with undiagnosed pleural effusion characterized as lymphocytic exudate.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with empyema, transudate pleural effusion, or significant airway obstruction 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 Local Anesthesia Thoracoscopy (LAT) as a first-line diagnostic tool for patients with suspected malignant pleural effusion. It compares outcomes between patients undergoing LAT and those receiving standard diagnostic procedures, which typically involve multiple cytological tests before biopsy. The study aims to assess the efficacy, sensitivity, hospitalization duration, time to diagnosis, and overall safety and comfort of both approaches. By streamlining the diagnostic process, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce delays in treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to quicker and more accurate diagnoses for patients with suspected malignant pleural effusion.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results with minimally invasive diagnostic techniques, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Undiagnosed pleural effusion with the character of a lymphocytic exudate Exclusion Criteria: * Empyema * Transudate pleural effusion. * Central airway obstruction by tumor. * Existence of extensive adhesions that do not allow the development of iatrogenic pneumothorax and the safe entry of the thoracoscope. * Uncontrollable cough. * Acute respiratory failure and/or Hypercapnia. * Performance Status: 5
Where it's running
-
Sotiria General Hospital of Thoracic Diseases
Athens, Attica, Greece Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Nektarios ANAGNOSTOPOULOS, Ass. professor
- Email: aris.anag@yahoo.gr
- Phone: +306946869480
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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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.