NCT04990609 · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
EUS-RFA PANCARDINAL-1 Trial
What this study is about
The objectives of this study are to determine the feasibility, tolerability, and treatment effect of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) radiofrequency ablation (RFA) plus standard-of-care neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
View original scientific description
The objectives of this study are to determine the feasibility, tolerability, and treatment effect of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) radiofrequency ablation (RFA) plus standard-of-care neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) will be performed before tumor resection surgery, with the goal of shrinking a tumor or stopping the spread of cancer so that surgery might be less invasive and more effective.
Interventions
DEVICE
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) consists of the application of an alternating current with a frequency of 350-500 kilohertz (kHz) to the target tissue via a special electrode located at the tip of an echoendoscope. The alternating current causes the vibratory movement of ionic particles in the abutting and adjoining tissue and results in the generation of heat. However, RFA induces not only local disruption of the tumor by heat, but it also produces localized coagulation necrosis of the tumor; which induces the release of large amounts of cellular debris. This cellular debris represents a source of tumor antigens that can trigger a host adaptive immune response against the tumor.
DRUG
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy (NAC)
The NAC regimen will be determined clinically by the participant's physician \[possible regimens are either mFOLFIRINOX or Gemcitabine Nab-Paclitaxel +/- Cisplatin (GemAbraxane)\].
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants who are able to complete neoadjuvant chemotherapy plus EUS-RFA and later undergo surgical tumor resection
Time frame: From the time of EUS-RFA NAC intervention to the time of surgical tumor resection (about 5-6 months)
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
- Diagnosed and histologically-confirmed PDAC by biopsy
- Permanent street address
- Consent to study participation
- Axial CT scan consistent with PDAC
- No prior chemotherapy or less than 2 months of pre-operative chemotherapy for PDAC
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0-2
Exclusion criteria
- Male or female patients \< 18 years of age
- No permanent street address or telephone number
- Pregnant patients
- Inmates or prisoners
- Unable to provide informed consent
Where
- Houston, Texas
Collaborators
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Related conditions & keywords
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 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations