PERSuaDER Trial

Esophagectomy for cancer is a complex surgical procedure, associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Postoperative complications mainly include infectious issues, such as pulmonary infections and anastomotic leakage.

The PERSuaDER trial aims to prevent these complications by targeting pathogenic microbial flora in the oropharyngeal and upper-gastro-intestinal tract. With a combination of antimicrobial (Colistin, Tobramycin) and antifungal (Amphotericin-B) compounds, called selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD), the pathogenic aerobic gram-negative rods and yeasts are reduced, while anaerobic, protective microbiota are preserved.

This pragmatic, randomized, controlled trial is organized in a multicenter, binational setting. In total, 16 Dutch and Belgian centers participate in this scientific initiative sponsored by ZonMW and KCE.