Alfapump® system vs. large volume paracentesis for refractory ascites: A multicenter randomized controlled study.

Background And Aims: Patients with refractory ascites (RA) require repeated large volume paracenteses (LVP), which involves frequent hospital visits and is associated with a poor quality-of-life. This study assessed safety and efficacy of an automated, low-flow pump (alfapump® [AP]) compared with LVP standard of care [SoC].

Methods: A randomized controlled trial, in seven centers, with six month patient observation was conducted.