Could a common anesthetic slow pancreatic cancer spread?

NCT ID NCT04048278

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Illinois at Chicago Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This trial investigates whether a lidocaine infusion given during pancreatic cancer surgery can affect circulating tumor cells (CTCs) — cancer cells that may travel through the blood. Researchers will compare lidocaine to a saline placebo in patients undergoing robotic pancreatectomy. The goal is to see if lidocaine changes the activity of these cells, potentially reducing the risk of cancer spread.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Lidocaine Hydrochloride
What this could lead to: If lidocaine is found to affect cancer cell activity, it could point toward a new way to slow spread during surgery.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase study with a small number of participants, so results may not apply broadly. Lidocaine is generally safe but can cause side effects like dizziness or heart issues.

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.

malignant pancreatic neoplasm pancreatic adenocarcinoma pancreatic carcinoma with mixed differentiation pancreatic neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PANCREATIC CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Illnois at Chicago
RECRUITING

Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States

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