NCT02231203

Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on the Perioperative Immune Response and Erythrocyte Function

Effect of Intravenous Omega-3 Fatty Acids on the Perioperative Immune Response and Erythrocyte Function in Patients With Colon Cancer

• Status: Completed
• Phase: Phase 4
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 44 (actual)
• Sponsor: Medical Center Alkmaar · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 60 Years – 80 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Ideally, the postoperative inflammatory response is part of a well-orchestrated mechanism that contributes to tissue healing and rapid recovery. An exaggerated uncontrolled inflammatory response, however may lead to catabolism, tissue damage and organ failure. Omega-3 fatty acids may provide a means to alter cellular immune responses to the benefit of the patient. When omega-3 fatty acids are incorporated into membranes of inflammatory cells, they trigger intracellular signalling pathways that result in a less pro-inflammatory response. They modify gene and protein expression, modulate membrane protein activity and act as a reservoir for bioactive molecules. They also have a strong anti-inflammatory effect by mediating resolution of the inflammation. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids improve erythrocyte function, which is vital for an adequate microcirculation, tissue oxygenation and wound healing. The investigators hypothesize that the perioperative administration of intravenous omega-3 fatty acids results in a rapid incorporation in immune cells and erythrocytes, thereby reducing the postoperative inflammatory response and improving erythrocyte function in patients undergoing colorectal surgery.

Conditions

• Colon Cancer

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
DRUG	Omegaven	2 infusions, 2 ml/kg, one the night before operation and one the day after operation
DRUG	Placebo	2 infusions, 2 ml/kg, one the night before operation and one the day after operation

Timeline

• Start date: 2014-10-01
• Primary completion: 2016-06-01
• Completion: 2016-06-01
• First posted: 2014-09-04
• Last updated: 2018-07-31

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Netherlands