Using ultrasound and clot-busting medicine for chronic deep vein clots
Treatment of chronic venous thrombosis with histotripsy and thrombolytics
This research explores a new way to break down stubborn blood clots in deep veins by combining special ultrasound waves with clot-dissolving medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11164697 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where blood clots form in deep veins, often in the legs. While clot-busting drugs work for fresh clots, they are not very effective for older, chronic clots, leaving many patients without good treatment options. This project aims to improve outcomes for these patients by combining traditional clot-busting drugs with histotripsy, an ultrasound technology that uses tiny bubbles to break apart tissue. Early findings suggest this combination can tackle all parts of a clot, leading to better results than either method alone.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is ultimately intended for patients who suffer from chronic deep vein thrombosis, especially those whose clots are not effectively treated by current medications alone.
Not a fit: Patients with acute, newly formed deep vein thrombosis may not directly benefit from this specific approach, as current treatments are often effective for them.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a much-needed effective treatment for chronic deep vein thrombosis, potentially preventing long-term complications for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work in this project has shown that combining histotripsy with thrombolytics improved outcomes in laboratory and animal models compared to either treatment alone.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bader, Kenneth B. — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Bader, Kenneth B.
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 below.