Using a special dye to improve blood flow visualization during gastric bypass surgery

The Use of Indocyanine Green to Visualize Blood Flow to the Gastrojejunostomy During Bariatric Surgery

Phase 4 Interventional University Health Network, Toronto · NCT06002906

This study is testing a special dye to see if it helps doctors better visualize blood flow during gastric bypass surgery and reduce complications afterward.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto Academic / other
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT06002906 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study evaluates the effectiveness of near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green (ICG) to visualize blood flow to the gastrojejunostomy during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Patients will receive ICG before and after the surgical connection is made, allowing surgeons to assess blood flow and assign a perfusion score. The study aims to determine the long-term impact of this technique on complications such as marginal ulceration, leaks, and strictures. Data will be collected prospectively through standard follow-up visits for up to two years.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 who are eligible for bariatric surgery and have been deemed appropriate for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Not a fit: Patients with known allergies to indocyanine green or sodium iodide, or those not planning to undergo Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce complications associated with gastric bypass surgery, leading to better patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies using similar imaging techniques have shown promise, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Capacity to provide informed consent.
* Over the Age of 18.
* Eligible for bariatric surgery in Ontario and deemed an appropriate candidate for RYGB surgery by the bariatric program.
* Commit to follow-up within the bariatric program, including behavioral and dietary modifications designed to aid in sustained weight-loss.
* Treatment of marginal ulcer with the revisional surgery.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Not willing to participate in study
* Contraindication to, or not planned to undergo RYGB
* Known allergy to indocyanine green or Sodium Iodide
* Is participant pregnant or planning to get pregnant in next two years
* Ongoing substance abuse or active smoking
* Bleeding diathesis or Coagulopathy
* Unwilling to take PPI medication Post operatively

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

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 Ulcer, GastricObesity, Morbid
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.