Proximal Splenic Artery Embolization to Help People with Tough-to-Manage Ascites from Cirrhosis
Official title: Proximal Splenic Artery Embolization for Treatment of Refractory Ascites in Decompensated Cirrhosis
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11448329 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small patient-centered study tests a minimally invasive procedure to reduce ascites and improve quality of life for people with decompensated liver cirrhosis who can’t safely have a TIPS procedure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $660,048 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK144165-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11448329 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with decompensated cirrhosis and refractory ascites who are not good candidates for or have failed TIPS.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without refractory ascites or those with contraindications to embolization may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project investigates PSAE, a percutaneous way to block part of the splenic artery to lower portal pressure and decrease ascites in patients with advanced liver disease. The approach aims to offer a less risky alternative for those who struggle with frequent fluid removal and poor daily functioning due to refractory ascites. The study will monitor safety and how well the procedure reduces reliance on large-volume paracentesis and improves symptoms over time. Researchers will collect data from participants to understand effectiveness and potential risks in a real-world clinical setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, PSAE could provide a new option to control ascites with fewer hospital visits and better quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggest potential benefit, but comprehensive clinical investigation is limited and results are awaited.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wehrenberg-Klee, Eric — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Wehrenberg-Klee, Eric
Related research
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Statin therapy for people with compensated cirrhosis
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Liver Cirrhosis Network: Centers for Clinical Research
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Understanding how risk factors affect progression of cirrhosis and response to statins in patients with cirrhosis
This project follows people with cirrhosis to see what factors speed up their liver disease and whether statin medicines help prevent worsening.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.