Using ultrasound to improve access for kidney dialysis patients

Role of Intravenous ultrasound (IVUS) in arteriovenous hemodialysis access dysfunction

['FUNDING_R01'] · BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10946295

This study is looking at how using a special ultrasound tool can help doctors better diagnose and treat problems with the blood vessels used for hemodialysis in patients with kidney disease, making sure they get the best care possible.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBOSTON MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10946295 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) to diagnose and manage dysfunction in arteriovenous (AV) access for patients undergoing hemodialysis. By providing a detailed 3-D view of stenosis, IVUS aims to enhance the accuracy of diagnosing AV access issues, which are common in patients with end-stage kidney disease. The study seeks to address the limitations of traditional angiography, which can misestimate stenosis and fail to provide critical information for treatment decisions. The research will involve a cross-disciplinary team of specialists to evaluate the effectiveness of IVUS in improving patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with end-stage kidney disease who are undergoing hemodialysis and experiencing issues with their arteriovenous access.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have end-stage kidney disease or are not on hemodialysis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better management of AV access dysfunction, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients on hemodialysis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that using advanced imaging techniques like IVUS can improve diagnostic accuracy in vascular diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.