Treatment for locally advanced pancreatic cancer using a new technology

Systemic Therapy With a Loco-regional Treatment in Patients With Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: The SMART Study

NA · University of Saskatchewan · NCT04276857

This study is testing a new treatment called irreversible electroporation combined with chemotherapy to see if it can help adults with locally advanced pancreatic cancer who can't have surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment27 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Saskatchewan (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations2 sites (Regina, Saskatchewan and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04276857 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness and safety of irreversible electroporation (IRE), a novel non-thermal ablation technique, in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer who are not candidates for surgery. The trial aims to provide a prospective validation of IRE in combination with chemotherapy, as current treatment options are limited and often ineffective. By minimizing damage to surrounding tissues, IRE may offer improved disease control and overall survival compared to traditional therapies. The study will enroll adult patients with biopsy-proven locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adult patients with biopsy-confirmed locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma who are eligible for combination chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer or those with other active second primary cancers will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of irreversible electroporation is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar applications, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Adult patients with biopsy-proven locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma who are candidates for combination chemotherapy as determined by treating oncologists.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnancy
2. Metastatic pancreatic cancer
3. Another active second primary cancer with the exception of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin or an in situ cancer.

Where this trial is running

Regina, Saskatchewan and 1 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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer, Irreversible Electroporation

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.