Could a common heart drug fix a rare surgery complication in kids?

NCT ID NCT06833320

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether propranolol, a drug often used for high blood pressure, can safely treat chylothorax—a buildup of lymphatic fluid—in children after open heart surgery. About 50 children aged 7 days to 18 years with congenital heart disease will receive either propranolol or a placebo. The goal is to see if the drug helps resolve the fluid leak faster and to identify which patients benefit most.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Propranolol

What this could lead to

If it works, this could provide a safe, non-surgical treatment for a serious complication after heart surgery in children.

What could go wrong

This is an early-phase trial with only 50 participants, and it is currently suspended. Not all patients responded in earlier studies, and side effects like low blood pressure or low blood sugar are possible.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Chylothorax congenital heart disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian

    New York, New York, 10032, United States