A Combined Endoscopy and Radiology-guided Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy Protocol for Inoperable Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma

This clinical trial proposes a personalized treatment approach to inoperable perihilar cholangiocarcinoma consisting of endoluminal ablative therapy via radiofrequency ablation followed by endoscopic biliary drainage.

Patients presenting with jaundice / biliary obstruction caused by inoperable perihilar cholangiocarcinoma as assessed during multidisciplinary case discussion will be invited to enroll in this trial.

Patients will be randomized in a 1:1 fashion to receive biliary plastic stenting (control arm) or biliary plastic stenting + radiofrequency ablation via endoscopic approach. In cases where ERCP fails to achieve adequate biliary drainage, stenting and/or drainage will be attempted via percutaneous approach.

Additional systemic chemotherapy will be offered to all eligible patients according to the local standard of care.

Patients will be followed up with a clinical visit at 2 weeks and stent exchange (+ additional RFA treatment in the control arm) will be offered at 8-12 weeks interval until disease progression, clinical deterioration precluding ERCP or death.