Improving blood flow measurement in patients with cirrhosis to prevent dangerous bleeding

Development of 4D Flow MRI for Risk Stratification of Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhosis

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10747919

This study is testing a new, safe MRI method to check blood flow in people with cirrhosis, helping to spot dangerous varices without needing any invasive procedures, so patients can avoid the risks of traditional monitoring.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10747919 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a non-invasive MRI technique to measure blood flow in patients with cirrhosis, a severe liver disease. By identifying the risk of gastroesophageal varices, which can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding, the study aims to provide a safer alternative to current invasive surveillance methods. Patients will undergo MRI scans to assess their blood flow patterns, helping to predict the presence of high-risk varices without the need for sedation or invasive procedures. This approach could significantly enhance patient management and reduce the risks associated with traditional monitoring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with cirrhosis and at risk for developing gastroesophageal varices.

Not a fit: Patients with cirrhosis who do not have any risk factors for developing gastroesophageal varices may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective monitoring of patients with cirrhosis, potentially reducing the incidence of fatal bleeding episodes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using non-invasive imaging techniques for assessing blood flow in various conditions, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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 2026-06-10 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.