Ultrasound for Portal Hypertension
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a special type of ultrasound, called Ultrasound with Subharmonic Imaging, in detecting portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the vein leading to the liver). Unlike the usual needle-based method, this ultrasound uses sound waves and a contrast agent to capture images and estimate pressure noninvasively. The goal is to detect portal hypertension early and monitor it without invasive procedures. The trial seeks adults already scheduled for a standard pressure test involving catheterization. As an unphased trial, this study offers the opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could lead to less invasive diagnostic options.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this ultrasound technique is safe for identifying portal hypertension?
Previous studies have shown that ultrasound with subharmonic imaging and the SHAPE technique is safe for patients. This method uses sound waves to create images and measure internal pressure without surgery. Unlike traditional methods that require incisions, this technique is noninvasive.
Reports suggest it is well-tolerated, with no significant side effects linked to its use. This new ultrasound technique aims to simplify checking for portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the liver's blood vessels) without the risks of invasive procedures.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using ultrasound with subharmonic imaging for portal hypertension because it offers a non-invasive way to assess liver health. Unlike traditional methods that often rely on invasive liver biopsies, this approach uses sound waves to get detailed images of the liver and its blood flow. The addition of the SHAPE technique aims to enhance these images, potentially providing more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of portal hypertension without the need for repeated invasive procedures. This could lead to earlier interventions and better management of the condition.
What evidence suggests that this ultrasound technique is effective for identifying portal hypertension?
Research has shown that the SHAPE technique, used in ultrasound imaging, can effectively estimate high blood pressure in the vein to the liver (portal hypertension) without invasive procedures. In this trial, participants will undergo ultrasound both with and without the SHAPE technique. One study found that the pressure readings from this method closely match those from traditional, more invasive tests. Additionally, SHAPE can detect both early signs and more obvious cases of portal hypertension with high accuracy, effectively identifying the condition when present. This suggests that SHAPE could reliably detect portal hypertension without invasive tests.23567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jaydev K. Dave, PhD
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic in Rochester
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with liver cirrhosis or portal hypertension, who may benefit from a noninvasive method to detect high blood pressure in the vein leading to the liver. Specific eligibility criteria are not provided, but typically include adults meeting certain health standards.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Definity IV and undergo ultrasound with and without SHAPE technique as well as standard of care liver biopsy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Subharmonic Aided Pressure Estimation (SHAPE)
- Ultrasound with Subharmonic Imaging
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor