Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
FISTULA-RFA Trial: Radiofrequency Ablation for Perianal Fistula
Sponsor: Korea University Ansan Hospital
Summary
The goal of this pilot clinical study is to learn whether radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can safely and effectively treat perianal fistulas in adults. It will also evaluate procedure-related safety and changes in symptoms over time. The main questions it aims to answer are: * How many participants achieve fistula closure by 6 months after RFA treatment? * How often do fistulas recur during follow-up? * What medical problems or adverse events occur after the RFA procedure (for example, pain, bleeding, infection, urinary retention, or changes in continence)? * How do patient-reported outcomes (such as pain and quality of life) change after treatment? This is a prospective, multicenter, single-arm pilot study. All participants will receive RFA treatment; there is no comparison (control) group. Participants will: * Be screened and enrolled at one of the participating hospitals * Undergo a standardized RFA procedure for the perianal fistula * Attend follow-up visits with clinical assessments at regular time points up to 6 months (including key assessments around 3 and 6 months) * Report symptoms and any adverse events during the follow-up period
Official title: FISTULA-RFA Trial (Fistula Inactivation by Segmental Thermal Uniform Lesion Ablation-Radiofrequency Ablation): A Prospective, Multicenter, Single-Arm Pilot Study in Patients With Perianal Fistula
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
20 Years - 74 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
80
Start Date
2026-04-01
Completion Date
2027-08-30
Last Updated
2026-03-05
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Perianal Fistula
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) will be delivered to the fistula tract using a dedicated RFA catheter introduced through the external opening under standardized technique. The procedure aims to apply controlled thermal energy along the tract to promote tract closure while minimizing injury to surrounding sphincter structures. Participants will receive a single RFA treatment per protocol, with post-procedure care and safety monitoring during scheduled follow-up.