Melatonin in liver resection: first clinical data

Aims: Experimental data suggest that melatonin, a potent immuno-modulator and antioxidant, would decrease the inflammatory changes after major liver resection, thus positively influencing the postoperative course. This study was designed to assess its safety and tolerance given as a single preoperative oral dose. Material and methods: A randomized controlled double blind single center pilot clinical trial on the safety and tolerance of preoperative melatonin application in patients undergoing major liver resection (PORTAL) [EudraCT number: 2006–005308–159] with two parallel study arms was performed. A total of 5…