A new ultrasound catheter to treat blood clots more effectively

Integrated Dual-frequency Ultrasound Catheter for Accelerated Sonothrombolysis (iDUCAS)

NIH-funded research North Carolina State University Raleigh · NIH-11087661

This study is testing a new ultrasound catheter system called iDUCAS that aims to make treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) safer and more effective, so patients can dissolve blood clots faster and with fewer side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Raleigh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11087661 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing an advanced ultrasound catheter system called iDUCAS, designed to enhance the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). By integrating intravascular imaging and motorized catheter advancement, the iDUCAS system aims to improve the efficiency and safety of thrombolysis, which is the process of dissolving blood clots. The approach utilizes microbubbles and nanodroplets to enhance the effectiveness of ultrasound in breaking down clots, potentially reducing treatment time and minimizing side effects. Patients may benefit from a more effective and safer treatment option for DVT compared to current methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, particularly those with long retracted clots.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to deep vein thrombosis or those who do not have blood clotting issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a faster and safer method for treating deep vein thrombosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise with similar ultrasound-based approaches for thrombolysis, indicating potential for success with this novel system.

Where this research is happening

Raleigh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.