Local anesthesia thoracoscopy for diagnosing pleural effusion
Local Anesthesia Thoracoscopy as a First Line Approach in the Diagnosis of Suspected Malignant Pleural Effusion: FLAT Trial.
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Athens, Attica) |
| Trial ID | NCT06946498 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with undiagnosed pleural effusion characterized as lymphocytic exudate.
Not a fit: Patients with empyema, transudate pleural effusion, or significant airway obstruction may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: Other studies have shown promising results with minimally invasive diagnostic techniques, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Athens, Attica
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.