Plain-English translation of NCT03472157 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing whether weight loss surgery works better than medical treatment (diet and exercise) for people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH) that has progressed to advanced scarring. Participants with obesity and serious liver fibrosis will be randomly assigned to either receive one of two types of weight loss surgery or to follow a structured program of diet changes and physical activity. The goal is to see if surgery can stop or reverse the liver damage better than lifestyle changes alone.
Advanced fatty liver disease is a serious condition that can lead to liver failure, but doctors aren't sure whether weight loss surgery or medical treatment works better to stop it. This trial aims to answer that question so patients and doctors have clear evidence about the best approach.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
If you enroll, you will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive weight loss surgery (either gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy), along with nutrition counseling and education about eating after surgery. The other group will follow a structured medical program of diet changes and increased physical activity. Both groups will have liver biopsies before starting treatment and again at the end to measure whether their liver disease has improved. You will need to attend study visits at a hospital over the treatment period.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 9, 2026 · Not medical advice
France
Sponsor
University Hospital, Lille
Collaborators
Ministry of Health, France
Enrollment target
~100 participants
Started
June 2018
Primary completion
June 2028
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in April 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Philippe Mathurin, MD,PhD
University Hospital, Lille
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.