Glowing dye during surgery may cut dangerous bowel leaks

NCT ID NCT06793280

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of Roma La Sapienza Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether injecting a special dye (ICG) during laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery helps surgeons see blood flow and choose a safer spot to cut. Over 560 adults took part, with half getting the dye and half relying on the surgeon's usual judgment. The main goal was to see if the dye reduces the rate of anastomotic leaks, a serious complication that can cause severe illness or death.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: indocyanine green (ICG) dye injection
What this could lead to: If this method works, it could help surgeons decide where to cut during colorectal surgery, potentially lowering the risk of dangerous post-surgery leaks.
What could go wrong: An earlier small trial found no clear benefit, so this larger study may also show no significant reduction in leaks. The dye itself can cause rare allergic reactions.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anastomotic Leak colorectal cancer colorectal neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANASTOMOTIC LEAK

Contacts and locations

Locations

Lidia Castagneto Gissey

Roma, Italy, 00161, Italy

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