Pancreatic necrosis complicates approximately 20-30% of severe acute pancreatitis cases. While many collections resolve without intervention, persistent symptomatic collections-particularly when infected-are associated with significant morbidity and mortality and frequently require procedural management. Current guidelines recommend delaying intervention until collections are fully walled off, typically around four weeks. However, in clinical practice, many patients deteriorate before this window is reached. Prospective data from our institution, supported by recent meta-analyses, suggest that early intervention using modern endoscopic techniques can be performed safely, even when undertaken within the first four weeks of disease onset. We believe that, in appropriately selected patients, early endoscopic intervention may prevent clinical deterioration, reduce complications, shorten hospital stay, and decrease overall healthcare utilization compared with a delayed approach. To formally evaluate this strategy, an international, multicenter randomized trial is being conducted, entitled Strategic Timing of Endoscopic Procedural Interventions in Infected Necrotizing Pancreatitis (STEP-IN Trial).
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.
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.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
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.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Composite of major complications or death
Timeframe: 6 months