Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 20 to 90

Using radiofrequency ablation to prevent recurrence of esophageal cancer after surgery

Official title: Preemptive Radiofrequency Ablation for Esophageal Speckled Lugol Background Mucosa to Prevent Metachronous Neoplastic Recurrence After Complete Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection ~A Randomized Controlled Study

Run by E-DA Hospital · NCT03183115 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether using radiofrequency ablation can help prevent new esophageal cancer from coming back in patients who have already had surgery for early-stage cancer.

More Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma trials

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages20 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
Enrollment100 (estimated)
SponsorE-DA Hospital
Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Kaohsiung City)
StatusRecruiting
StartedApril 18, 2016
Main results expectedOctober 30, 2025
Study endsDecember 30, 2026
Registry record updatedMarch 3, 2023
Trial IDNCT03183115 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are adults with early-stage ESCNs who have undergone complete endoscopic submucosal dissection and exhibit a 'speckled' lugol staining pattern.

Probably not a fit

Patients who have had incomplete endoscopic treatment or those with a history of systemic chemotherapy or radiation therapy for esophageal conditions 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 clinical trial investigates the use of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to prevent the recurrence of metachronous squamous neoplasia in patients who have undergone complete endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early esophageal squamous cell neoplasms (ESCNs). The study focuses on patients with a specific 'speckled' lugol staining pattern, which indicates a higher risk for recurrence. By applying RFA, the trial aims to reduce the incidence of new tumors in these high-risk patients. The methodology includes careful monitoring of patients post-ESD and the application of RFA as a preventive measure.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in patients with early esophageal squamous cell neoplasms.

How similar studies have gone: While the use of RFA in this context is gaining attention, it remains a relatively novel approach with limited prior studies demonstrating success.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults with early stage ESCNs (squamous high grade dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, or T1N0M0 SCC) who were treated by endoscopic submucosal dissection.
* Lugol staining showed "speckled" (\>10 small lugol-unstained lesions) pattern of background mucosa.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Having a history of incomplete endoscopic treatment, or complications during/after treatment (perforation, stricture).
* Having history of systemic chemotherapy or radiation therapy for esophagus or post esophagectomy.
* Life expectancy \<2 yr.
* Decompensated cirrhosis (Child score B, C).
* Having large esophageal varices.
* Poor performance status (ECOG\>2).

Where it's running

  • EDA Hospital
    Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.