Noninvasive measurement of portal venous pressure using ultrasound

Remote Intravascular Pressure Sensing using Ultrasound

NIH-funded research Texas Engineering Experiment Station · NIH-10929715

This study is working on a new, safe way to check the pressure in the blood vessels of the liver for people with liver cirrhosis, using special bubbles that can be seen with ultrasound, so you won't need any invasive tests.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas Engineering Experiment Station NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, United States)
Project IDNIH-10929715 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a new method for measuring portal venous pressure noninvasively, which is crucial for patients with liver cirrhosis. The approach utilizes a novel contrast agent that can be activated by ultrasound to create detectable microbubbles, allowing for real-time imaging and pressure estimation. By improving the accuracy and safety of pressure measurements, this method could enhance the routine evaluation of liver disease without the need for invasive procedures. The research team is focused on creating a next-generation imaging system that leverages these advancements.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis or other liver conditions that may lead to portal hypertension.

Not a fit: Patients without liver disease or those who do not have complications related to portal hypertension may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the management and treatment of patients with liver disease by providing safer and more accurate pressure measurements.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using ultrasound and contrast agents for similar applications, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

College Station, 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.