NCT05998330 · Massachusetts General Hospital
LiverPAL: A Trial of Inpatient Palliative Care for Patients With Advanced Liver Disease
(LiverPAL)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether early integration of palliative care in the care of hospitalized patients with advanced liver disease (AdvLD) can improve patients' quality of life, physical symptoms, mood, and serious illness communication. Palliative care is a medical specialty focused on lessening (or "palliating") symptoms and assisting in coping with serious illness.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether early integration of palliative care in the care of hospitalized patients with advanced liver disease (AdvLD) can improve patients' quality of life, physical symptoms, mood, and serious illness communication. Palliative care is a medical specialty focused on lessening (or "palliating") symptoms and assisting in coping with serious illness.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Hospitalized patient with a diagnosis of advanced liver disease, defined as cirrhosis with one of the following (new or ongoing) within the prior six months from date of consent:
- Ascites (requiring diuretics or serial large volume paracenteses)
- Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- Hepatic hydrothorax (requiring diuretics)
- Variceal bleed (with one or more occurrences)
- Overt hepatic encephalopathy (requiring medications)
- Ability to comprehend English Patient
Exclusion criteria
- Prior history of liver transplantation
- Have uncontrolled hepatic encephalopathy, cognitive impairment, psychiatric disorder or other comorbid condition which the primary medical, hepatology, and/or transplant surgery teams believes prohibits the ability to provide informed consent
- Current or recent (within 5 years of receiving curative cancer treatment) history of extrahepatic malignancy (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer)
- Presence of hepatocellular carcinoma beyond Milan criteria
- Are already receiving hospice care
- Receive a score of \<10 on the Simplified Animal Naming Test Caregiver Inclusion Criteria
- Adult caregiver (≥ 18 years of age)
- A relative or friend identified by the patient upon whom the patient relies for help and who likely is to be present in-person during hospitalizations or clinic appointments, or willing to participate by phone
- Ability to comprehend English and can complete questionnaires Caregiver Exclusion Criteria 1\. Inability to comprehend English
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 17, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations