Using AI to improve laparoscopic surgery for gallbladder issues

Feasibility and Utility of Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) - Driven Advanced Intraoperative Visualization and Identification of Critical Anatomic Structures and Procedural Phases in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

NA · Activ Surgical · NCT05775133

This study is testing whether using artificial intelligence during gallbladder surgery can help surgeons avoid serious injuries and improve patient safety.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorActiv Surgical (industry)
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT05775133 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence (AI) model in identifying critical anatomical structures and phases during laparoscopic cholecystectomy compared to traditional methods used by surgeons. Surgeons will perform the procedure as usual while the AI analyzes data from the laparoscopic camera, providing insights without altering the surgeon's view. The goal is to reduce the risk of bile duct injuries, which are serious complications associated with this type of surgery. By documenting the critical view of safety and utilizing intraoperative cholangiography, the study aims to enhance surgical outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy due to symptomatic cholelithiasis or cholecystitis.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for laparoscopic surgery or those who do not understand the study procedures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, leading to better patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using AI for surgical assistance, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* All patients age \> 18 years old who are planned for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy; spoken command and literacy in the native language spoken at each participating center; ability to understand and follow study procedures; and having provided signed consent.
* Eligible patients will be screened and assigned as per risk calculator for difficulty of LC
* Diagnosis:

  * All patients with clinical suspicion and diagnosis of symptomatic cholelithiasis or cholecystitis planned for cholecystectomy.
  * Typical imaging as per standard workup findings including US, CT and/or MRI. Plain radiographs and contrast imaging may be obtained by referring physicians and are helpful for confirming the clinical diagnosis.
* Prior therapy:

  o Patients with prior surgery are eligible for enrollment.
* Laboratory:

  * Hemoglobin \> 9 g/dL
  * Platelet count ≥75,000/µL (may receive transfusions)
  * Normal prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and international normalized ratio (INR) \< 1.5 x upper limit of normal (including patients on prophylactic anticoagulation)
  * Liver Function Test
  * Renal function: Age-adjusted normal serum creatinine
  * Adequate pulmonary function: Defined as no dyspnea at rest, and a pulse oximetry \>94% on room air if there is any clinical indication for determination.

Exclusion Criteria

* Non-elective acute cholecystectomy will be excluded.
* Patients assigned to FDA cleared ICG-based visualization are contraindicated for any chronic renal dysfunction, potential drug interaction, history of allergy to ICG or anaphylaxis, and pregnancy.
* Patients eligible for cholecystectomy, exclusion criteria include known allergy to ICG; coagulopathy or known, pre-existing liver disease; pregnancy or breast-feeding; or being of reproductive age with pregnancy possible and not ruled out.
* Patients currently in any investigational agents.
* Adults unable to consent
* Individuals under 18 years of age
* Pregnant women
* Prisoners
* Vulnerable populations

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

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: Cholecystitis, Cholelithiasis, Biliary Dyskinesia, artificial intelligence, laparoscopy, laparoscopic surgery

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.