UnknownPhase 4

Uncovered Self-expandable Metal Stent Versus Double Layer Plastic Stent for Malignant Hilar Stricture

South Korea100 participantsStarted 2010-05

Plain-language summary

The overall median survival of nonresectable malignant hilar obstruction in most series has been less than 6 months. Most patients with malignant hilar obstruction present with advanced disease, making palliative endoscopic drainage the principal therapeutic option. However, the optimal endoscopic management strategy is contentious. Almost all of the published data comparing plastic and metallic stents relate to distal tumors (those of the pancreas, common bile duct and ampulla). Stent patency, complication rates, and cost-effectiveness have favored metallic stents when compared with plastic stents in patients with distal malignant obstruction expected to live at least 3 to 6 months. There are few comparative study as to whether self-expanding metallic or plastic stent, especially DLS (double layer plastic stent) are preferable in the technical success, stent patency, and cost-effectiveness for palliating malignant hilar obstruction. The study was designed to compare the the technical success, stent patency, and cost-effectiveness of self-expandable metal stent and DLS in patients with malignant hilar obstruction.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patient over 18 years old * Patient with malignant hilar obstruction Exclusion Criteria: * No written informed consent * Patient with uncorrectable severe coagulopathy * Indication for surgical operation * Karnofsky score \< 60%

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Stent patency

Timeframe: Up to 2 years

Trial details

NCT IDNCT01125865

SponsorSoon Chun Hyang University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2011-07

Contact for this trial

Do Hyun Park, MD

+82-2-3010-3180 dhpark@amc.seoul.kr

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Bile Duct Obstruction trials