Glow-in-the-Dark dye could make gallbladder surgery safer

NCT ID NCT02702843

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: The Cleveland Clinic Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using a dye called indocyanine green along with infrared light helps surgeons see the bile ducts more clearly during gallbladder removal surgery. Over 600 adults having their gallbladder taken out were randomly assigned to either standard white light or the new infrared technique. The goal was to see if the infrared method improves detection of key bile ducts before and after dissection, which could reduce the risk of accidental injury.

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 dye
What this could lead to: If this technique works better, it could help surgeons avoid injuring bile ducts during gallbladder surgery, making the procedure safer.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study comparing two imaging methods, not a new treatment. The dye may not improve outcomes for all patients, and some people are allergic to iodides.

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.

cholecystitis cholelithiasis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CHOLECYSTITIS CHOLELITHIASIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Askelopios Westklinikum Hamburg

Hamburg, Germany
Cedar Sinai

Los Angeles, California, 90048, United States
Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, United States
Hospital de clinicas jose de San Martin

Buenos Aires, Argentina
Klinikum Sudstadt Rostock

Rostock, Germany
University of Insubria

Varese, Italy
University of Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

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