Comparing two needle sizes for liver biopsies using endoscopic ultrasound

Sample Adequacy and Diagnostic Accuracy of a 22 Gauge FNB Needle Vs a 19G FNB Needle for EUS-guided Liver Biopsy: a Prospective Trial

PHASE4 · Duzce University · NCT06643520

This study tests whether using a thicker or thinner needle for liver biopsies helps doctors get better samples and make more accurate diagnoses for patients with unexplained liver issues.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment82 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorDuzce University (other)
Locations1 site (Duzce)
Trial IDNCT06643520 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares the effectiveness of 19-gauge and 22-gauge needles for endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsies. It aims to determine which needle size provides better sample adequacy and diagnostic accuracy while assessing safety in patients with unexplained liver enzyme elevation. The same endoscopist will perform the biopsies on the same liver lobe during the same session to ensure consistency in results. The findings could clarify ongoing debates regarding optimal needle size for this procedure.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with unexplained elevation of liver enzymes and suspected hepatic parenchymal disease.

Not a fit: Patients with malignancy, decompensated cirrhosis, ascites, coagulopathy, or those on anticoagulants will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic accuracy and safety in liver biopsies, benefiting patients with liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding needle size effectiveness, making this approach both relevant and necessary for further investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All patients with unexplained elevation of liver enzymes and suspected hepatic paranchymal disease

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who had malignancy
* Patients who have decompensated cirrhosis
* Presence of ascites
* Patients with coagulopathy (platelets \< 50.000 μ/ mL and INR \> 1.5)
* The use of anticoagulant agents
* Pregnancy
* Unable to provide written informed consent

Where this trial is running

Duzce

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Endoscopic Ultrasonography, Liver Biopsy

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.