Could a common cholesterol drug improve recovery after cancer surgery?

NCT ID NCT01169051

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

Summary

This study reviewed the medical records of 569 adults who had surgery for lung or esophageal cancer. Researchers wanted to see if taking statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) around the time of surgery was linked to fewer complications and better long-term outcomes. The goal is to find out if a simple, inexpensive drug could help patients recover more smoothly.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
statins
What this could lead to
If statins are found to improve recovery, this could point toward a simple way to reduce complications after thoracic cancer surgery.
What could go wrong
This is a retrospective review, not a controlled trial, so it can only show an association, not prove cause and effect. Results may not lead to changes in practice.

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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

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