Plain-English translation of NCT04868149 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated ·
Phase 3 — Testing in thousands of people, comparing the treatment against what doctors currently use. This is the last big step before approval.
This trial is testing whether a newer, less invasive surgical approach called laparoscopic ALPPS works as well as the traditional open surgery approach for treating liver cancer. ALPPS is a two-stage procedure that helps prepare the liver for major surgery by gradually increasing the amount of healthy liver tissue available. The study wants to see if doing the first stage through small incisions (laparoscopic) instead of a large open cut leads to less pain, faster recovery, and equally good cancer outcomes.
Most ALPPS procedures are currently done with one large surgical incision, which causes significant pain and a longer recovery period. As laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery has become safer and more refined, doctors want to know if using this technique for ALPPS might reduce surgical trauma while maintaining the treatment's effectiveness.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
If you qualify and enroll, you will be randomly assigned to receive either the laparoscopic (minimally invasive) or open surgical version of the ALPPS procedure. This is a two-stage surgery: the first stage prepares your liver by dividing it and blocking blood flow to part of it, and the second stage (typically 2-3 weeks later) removes the cancer-bearing portion. You will have standard surgical visits before and after each stage, with blood tests and imaging scans to monitor how well your liver is recovering and regenerating. The study will track your pain levels, recovery speed, and long-term cancer outcomes.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 19, 2026 · Not medical advice
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