Measuring portal pressure in children without invasive procedures

Noninvasive Portal Pressure Measurements in Children

NIH-funded research Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10242755

This study is working on a new, gentle way to measure blood pressure in the liver of children, which can help doctors better understand and treat liver problems like portal hypertension.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10242755 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a noninvasive method for measuring portal venous pressure in children, which is crucial for diagnosing and managing portal hypertension. Currently, pediatricians rely on indirect methods, as the standard adult technique is not routinely applicable to children. The study builds on previous work that successfully estimated portal pressures in adults and canines, and it seeks to adapt this technique for pediatric use. By improving the accuracy of portal pressure measurements, the research could lead to better management of liver diseases in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with liver diseases that can lead to portal hypertension, such as biliary atresia or congenital hepatic fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases that do not cause portal hypertension or those who are adults may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the diagnosis and treatment of portal hypertension in children, potentially reducing mortality and complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in using similar noninvasive techniques for adults, indicating potential for this approach in pediatric populations.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.