Could a radiofrequency knife beat the stapler for safer pancreas surgery?

NCT ID NCT04402346

First seen Jul 20, 2026 · Last updated Jul 21, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether using a radiofrequency device to cut the pancreas during distal pancreatectomy reduces the chance of a pancreatic fistula (a leak of digestive fluids) compared to the standard stapler method. About 112 adults having this surgery for benign or malignant tumors will be randomly assigned to one of the two techniques. The main goal is to see which method leads to fewer fistulas, with follow-up on complications and recovery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
radiofrequency-assisted pancreas transection or stapler-assisted pancreas transection
What this could lead to
If radiofrequency transection proves better, it could reduce the risk of pancreatic fistula, a serious complication after pancreas surgery.
What could go wrong
This is a single trial with 112 participants, and results may not apply to all patients or surgical settings. The procedure also carries its own risks.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for PANCREAS; FISTULA are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pancreatic Fistula pancreatic neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Parc de Salut Mar de Barcelona- Hospital del Mar

    Barcelona, Catalonia, 08019, Spain

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.