Old drug shows new promise against Post-Surgery fluid buildup

NCT ID NCT02799212

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a 6-day infusion of somatostatin, a drug that lowers pressure in the liver's blood vessels, could prevent ascites (fluid buildup) after liver cancer surgery. 179 patients with liver cancer and underlying liver disease took part. The goal was to see if somatostatin reduces the need for drainage or punctures for fluid removal.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

somatostatin

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, temporary way to prevent dangerous fluid buildup after liver surgery, reducing complications and hospital stays.

What could go wrong

This is a completed Phase 3 trial, but results are not yet widely reported. The benefit may be modest or not apply to all patients, and somatostatin can cause side effects like nausea or blood sugar changes.

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.

Ascites hepatocellular carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • APHM - Hôpital de la Timone

    Marseille, France

  • APHP - Hôpital Beaujon

    Clichy, France

  • CHRU Lille - Hopital Huriez

    Lille, France

  • CHU Rennes - Hôpital Pontchaillou

    Rennes, France

  • CHU de Bordeaux - Hôpital Haut Lévèque

    Pessac, France

  • CHU de Toulouse - Hopital Rangueil

    Toulouse, France

  • Hospices Civils de Lyon - Hôpital de la Croix Rousse

    Lyon, 69004, France