Clinical Research Directory

Multiparametric Ultrasound for the Noninvasive Diagnosis of Porto-sinusoidal Vascular Liver Disorder

Porto-sinusoidal vascular disease (PSVD) is a rare clinical entity characterized by significant portal hypertension in the absence of cirrhosis on liver histology, which may or may not show specific alterations of the portal vein, sinusoids, or hepatic lobular architecture. Currently, diagnosis of this condition necessarily requires a liver biopsy and, despite some differences detected on imaging studies-and particularly on liver and spleen elastography-PSVD remains indistinguishable from cirrhosis using non-invasive tests. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an easy-to-perform, repeatable, and cost-effective examination that enables real-time assessment of parenchymal or focal liver lesion perfusion. Moreover, the application of dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (DCE-US-i.e., contrast-enhanced ultrasound followed by quantitative perfusion analysis using dedicated software, such as the VueBox Software that will be used in this study) allows integration of CEUS qualitative assessment with quantitative evaluation of tissue perfusion through analysis of time-intensity curves generated during contrast transit. From this analysis, several perfusion-related parameters can be derived (for example, peak enhancement, time to peak, or area under the curve), which have already proven useful in improving differential diagnosis of focal liver lesions and in predicting treatment response and systemic therapy outcomes. To date, the use of DCE-US for the diagnosis of PSVD has not yet been described; however, based on the underlying histological alterations associated with this disease, it is reasonable to hypothesize that parameters obtained with this technique in the liver parenchyma of patients with PSVD may differ from those measured in patients with liver cirrhosis. The aim of the present project is to apply DCE-US in patients with PSVD and in patients with cirrhosis to evaluate potential significant differences in perfusion parameters, and to assess the feasibility of a non-invasive differential diagnosis between the two conditions using this technique in combination with elastography and bidimensional ultrasound data to develop a multiparametric diagnostic score.

Indicators Affecting PVT Recanalization

This is a retrospective-prospective study conducted at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, to explore portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in patients with cirrhosis and gastroesophageal varices (GEV). It aimed to provide insights into the diagnosis, follow-up, and factors influencing PVT recanalization, to help patients, families, and healthcare providers understand the disease and related clinical management.

Hepatic and Splenic Microcirculatory Perfusion for Ruling Out High-Risk Varices in Patients With Hepatitis B-Related Cirrhosis

Background: Chronic hepatitis B (CHB)-related cirrhosis is a common cause of portal hypertension, which leads to the development of gastroesophageal varices (EGVs). High-risk varices (HRV) are associated with a higher risk of bleeding and require timely interventions. Endoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosing HRV but is invasive and not suitable for routine screening in large populations. Objective: This study aims to develop a noninvasive model based on hepatic and splenic microcirculatory perfusion parameters derived from intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to predict and rule out HRV in patients with compensated CHB-related cirrhosis receiving antiviral therapy. Methods: This observational, retrospective study will include patients with compensated CHB-related cirrhosis who have undergone both esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and IVIM MRI. Microcirculatory perfusion parameters will be extracted from IVIM images using a biexponential model, and their ability to predict HRV will be assessed. Outcomes: The study will validate the performance of the Hepato-Splenic Microcirculatory Perfusion Model (HSMP) in ruling out HRV compared to conventional noninvasive tests like APRI, FIB-4, and LSM. The model's diagnostic accuracy will be evaluated with a focus on reducing unnecessary endoscopic procedures. Significance: If successful, this model could reduce the need for invasive endoscopy and improve the management of cirrhosis patients by providing a safer and more accessible screening tool for HRV.

VIATORR® TIPS Study Evaluating 6-10mm Diameters (VIATIPS)

This Registry will look at patients being treated with a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure for portal hypertension. The purpose of this Registry is to collect data on the safety and performance of the GORE® VIATORR® TIPS Endoprosthesis with Controlled Expansion (6-10mm) for 2 years in real world setting. Additionally, data will be collected on the safety and performance of the GORE TIPS Set when utilized.

Optimizing Portal Hypertension With TIPS and Interval Metabolic Surgery for Advanced Liver Disease

Cirrhosis is a form of advanced liver disease that can lead to serious complications, especially when combined with severe obesity. Many patients with cirrhosis also develop a condition called clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH), which is increased pressure in the veins of the liver. CSPH raises the risk of life-threatening events like internal bleeding and liver failure. Unfortunately, treatment options for people who have both cirrhosis and severe obesity are very limited, especially when portal hypertension is present. This study, called the OPTIMAL Trial, is a randomized clinical trial designed to evaluate whether combining two procedures improves health outcomes in this high-risk population. The first procedure, called TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt), is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces pressure in the liver by creating a pathway for blood to flow more easily. The second procedure is sleeve gastrectomy, a form of metabolic (bariatric) surgery that helps patients lose weight and improve related conditions like diabetes. The study will compare two groups: 1. One group will receive TIPS followed by sleeve gastrectomy (TIPS+SG). 2. The other group will receive medical weight management (standard non-surgical care, including diet, lifestyle changes, and weight loss medications). All participants will have severe obesity and cirrhosis with CSPH but will not have decompensated liver disease (such as large amounts of fluid in the abdomen, a history of variceal bleeding, or recent liver failure). Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups. The main goal of the study is to determine whether the combination of TIPS + SG improves quality of life and leads to greater weight loss compared to medical therapy alone. The study will also monitor for any complications from either the procedures or the medical treatment. Participants will be followed for 6 months after their treatment starts, with periodic assessments of their physical health, liver function, and overall well-being. Some participants may also be followed for a longer period to assess long-term outcomes. This study hopes to provide high-quality evidence for a novel, stepwise treatment strategy that may help people with obesity and liver disease live longer, healthier lives. If successful, it could change how advanced liver disease and obesity are managed together, especially in patients who currently have few safe and effective options. All study care is provided at Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.

Effectiveness and Safety of TIPS Stent Graft in the Treatment of Cirrhosis and Complications of Portal Hypertension

This Study is a prospective, multi-center, single-arm objective perform an criteria (OPC) study. A 12 months follow-up study on the patients who intend to receive the treatment of cirrhosis and complications of portal hypertension with the TIPS Stent Graft will be conducted. The primary evaluation endpoint of this Study is the stent patency at 6 months after treatment completion .

A Comparative Study of MRI and Ultrasound for Detection of Primary Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Body Composition and Risk Factors for Decompensation in Liver Cirrhosis

DETECT-HCC-ESLD is a prospective multicenter study designed to examine early detection and risk stratification of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in individuals with advanced liver disease. Adults with cirrhosis of different etiologies are enrolled and followed longitudinally with structured clinical assessments and imaging at predefined intervals. A key objective is to evaluate ultrasound and abbreviated MRI (AMRI) as surveillance modalities for HCC. The study examines detection performance, feasibility, and factors influencing image quality and interpretability. The protocol also includes the study of body composition, focusing on how variations in adiposity and muscle mass may relate to imaging characteristics, disease progression, and HCC risk. Longitudinal clinical and imaging data are used to explore prediction models aimed at identifying patients with differing levels of HCC risk. The study records outcomes such as incident HCC, liver-related complications, and mortality to support analyses of disease trajectories. The DETECT-HCC-ESLD study provides a structured framework for collecting clinical, imaging, and body composition data over time, enabling detailed evaluation of surveillance strategies and risk patterns in advanced liver disease.

TIPS With or Without BCAA

Cirrhosis is a major global cause of morbidity and mortality in chronic liver disease patients, accounting for 2.4% of global deaths in 2019. A 1990-2017 Global Burden of Disease study showed rising cirrhosis-related deaths, bringing heavy health and economic burdens. It often leads to portal hypertension and subsequent complications like ascites, gastroesophageal variceal bleeding (20% 6-week mortality), and hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an important treatment for variceal bleeding and refractory ascites per guidelines from EASL, AASLD, and the Chinese Medical Association. Malnutrition affects 20% of compensated and over 50% of decompensated cirrhotic patients; sarcopenia (severe malnutrition) is linked to higher cirrhosis-related complications, impaired quality of life, survival, and poor prognosis in TIPS-treated patients. Thus, concurrent sarcopenia intervention during TIPS may improve outcomes. Baveno VII, EASL, and AASLD guidelines recommend branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) and leucine-rich supplements for decompensated cirrhosis to ensure adequate nitrogen intake. RCT evidence shows BCAAs improve skeletal muscle index (SMI) in cirrhotic patients with sarcopenia and reduce HE risk, but evidence for TIPS-treated patients is lacking. This study aims to compare muscle mass changes and clinical prognosis between TIPS patients with sarcopenia, portal hypertension, and variceal bleeding who receive TIPS with or without BCAA supplements.

Microplastics, Cirrhosis and Portal Hypertension

Cirrhosis and portal hypertension are associated with an hyperdynamic circulation and hepatic inflammation, leading to complications like ascites, variceal bleeding, acute kidney injury, and higher infection risk. Microplastics (MPs) are a global plastic pollution issue, and studies have found plastic MPs or nanoparticles (NPs) contaminating human, animal and environmental ecosystems.It has been noted that the accumulation of MPs increases with a reduction in size of the plastic particle. MPs are categorized into primary particles such as manufactured plastics including pellets and cosmetic microbeads and secondary particles which originate from mechanical and ultraviolet disruption of large plastic particles. MPs can be ingested via food or beverages, especially plastic packaged comestibles or inhaled as environmental pollutants. Contamination of medications such as antibiotics, intravenous fluids, albumin and medical devices is another source of exposure to microplastics in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD)In particular exposure to endoscopic interventions, liver biopsy, and invasive procedures such as paracentesis and interventional radiology procedures can lead to plastic exposure and deposition of MPs in the liver and other tissues in patients with cirrhosis. It may be hypothesized that these may contribute to hepatic inflammation and progression of cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Globally, there is new research on the influence of MPs on the environment, plant and animal ecosystems and human health. Polystyrene (PS) microspheres that concentrate in the liver, intestine and the kidneys of mammals disrupt lipid and energy metabolism, impair mucus secretion, and alter the microbiome. Therefore, studies are required to assess how and to what extent, MPs impact human health, and affect chronic diseases like cirrhosis and reduce longevity. In the proposed study we will assess the presence of MPs in the liver, kidneys and intestine of patients with liver cirrhosis and compare it with those without underlying liver disease and determine the impact on portal hypertension and fibrosis, and cardiovascular and metabolic function.

Program to Avoid NSAIDs in Patients With Advanced Chronic Liver Disease

This study aims to implement measures to avoid the use of NSAIDs or metamizole in patients with advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD) scheduled for major surgery, which are contraindicated due to increased risk of renal dysfunction such as acute kidney injury (AKI), clinical decompensation such as ascites, and bleeding.

2D-shear Wave Spleen Elastography in Clinically Significant Portal Hypertension and High-risk Varices

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the role of spleen shear wave elastography (SWE-SSM) for ruling in and ruling out clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) in patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) and for ruling in and ruling out high-risk esophageal varices (HRV) in patients with CSPH. Secondary objectives of the study include the investigation of the correlation between SWE-SSM and portal pressure in a subgroup of patients undergoing hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement and between SWE-SSM and transient elastography (TE-SSM). The values of SWE-SSM and SWE-LSM will be assessed during the ultrasound examination to which the patient will be subjected according to their care pathway. If inclusion criteria are met and informed consent is obtained, spleen elastography will be carried out (in addition to the routine SWE-LSM planned in clinical practice). Spleen elastography will not alter the standard ultrasound examination but represents a non-invasive diagnostic addition. There will be no treatment or experimental intervention that will modify the patient's condition or directly influence their clinical course. The aim is to collect data based on clinical observations without altering the treatment or the natural course of the disease.

CARPEUS : Effect of Carvedilol on the Portosystemic Gradient as Measured by Endoscopic Ultrasound

The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy after one month of treatment with Carvedilol (12.5 mg daily) in primary prophylaxis of digestive haemorrhage due to portal hypertension in cirrhosis, by endoscopic ultrasound-guided portal pressure gradient measurement.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Measurement of Portal Vein Pressure Gradient

This study aims to evaluate the accuracy and safety of a novel endoscopic ultrasound-guided portal pressure gradient (EUS-PPG) measurement technique in 42 adults with liver cirrhosis and portal vein thrombosis (blood clots in the liver's main vein), a condition where current standard testing (HVPG) fails to provide reliable pressure readings. Participants will undergo both EUS-PPG (using a specialized needle under ultrasound guidance) and HVPG procedures to compare results; EUS-PPG will be performed under general anesthesia in a left-side lying position-an innovative approach-while also enabling immediate endoscopic treatment of bleeding veins if detected during the same session. The primary goals are to validate EUS-PPG's safety in this high-risk group, establish its correlation with HVPG, and pioneer an integrated diagnosis-treatment protocol to reduce hospital stays and costs. The study runs from July 2025 to June 2027 at Zhejiang University School of Medicine.

Effects of Metformin on Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient in Patients With Cirrhosis and Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension (PHT) is defined by an elevated pressure gradient between the portal vein and the hepatic veins ≥ 5 mm Hg, and is the main vector of complications in cirrhosis. When the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) is ≥ 10 mm Hg, it is considered as a " clinically significant PHT ": ascites and oesophageal varices (EV) may occur. Above 12 mm Hg, there is a risk of variceal bleeding. Carvedilol, a non-selective beta-blocker (NSBB), is recommended in all the patients with cirrhosis and clinically significant PHT in order to prevent decompensation of cirrhosis. Nevertheless, 40 % of patients are NSBB non-responders, i.e. they do not show a significant decrease in HVPG. In addition, NSBB responders treated for primary prophylaxis have an incidence of variceal bleeding of approximately 10% per year, with a six-week mortality of 20%. Therefore, there is an unmet need for PHT in patients with cirrhosis who do not respond to NSBB, and also for an increase in efficacy in responders. In a randomised pilot study, Rittig et al. observed a mean change in HVPG of -2,9 mm Hg in 16 patients with cirrhosis and HVPG ≥ 12 mm Hg, not treated with NSBB, 90 minutes after ingestion of 1000 mg metformin. The study will be a prospective, national, multicentre, phase II, superiority comparative randomized (1:1) simple-blinded clinical trial with two parallel arms: metformin versus placebo. The main objective is to evaluate the effect of metformin versus placebo during 28 days on HVPG, in patients with cirrhosis and a HVPG ≥ 12 mm Hg already treated with carvedilol. Subjects randomized in the metformin group or placebo group will receive metformin ou placebo, one pill of 500 mg per os twice a day (one in the morning and one in the evening, during or at the end of the meal) for 28 days.

AI-guided TIPS Procedure

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS)-guided AI model can guide TIPS procedure in adults better than conventional TIPS procedure (artificially blinded TIPS). TIPS surgical outcomes and intraoperative and postoperative complications will also be observed. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does the AI model lower the number of punctures, radiation dose, and complications of participants undergo TIPS? * Does the AI model improve the efficacy of TIPS for participants? Participants will: * Take the TIPS by the guidance of the AI model or conventional manually blinded penetration (placebo) * The number of punctures, the success rate of the procedure, the radiation dose, intraoperative complications and postoperative complications within 3 months will be recorded * Intraoperative portal pressure gradient drop values, symptoms of ascites and rebleeding within 3 months after TIPS will be reported

Colonic Polypectomy in Cirrhotic Patients With Portal Hypertension

The goal of this retrospective cohort study is to evaluate the risk of post-polypectomy bleeding following the colonoscopy resection of lower gastrointestinal polyps in patients with liver cirrhosis with portal hypertension. The main question it aims to answer is: Does the risk of bleeding increase after colonoscopy polypectomy in patients with liver cirrhosis with portal hypertension? Participants will be subjected to polypectomy of any colonic polyps.

Small Diameter TIPS in Patients with Severe Liver Atrophy and Variceal Bleeding

Portal hypertension is the most common complication in patients with end-stage liver cirrhosis. Portal hypertension-related complications, such as variceal bleeding, often lead to a poor prognosis. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an effective treatment strategy for managing portal hypertension-related variceal bleeding. However, the appropriate diameter of the covered stent during the TIPS procedure remains a subject of debate. To date, there is a lack of strong evidence regarding the most suitable covered stent diameter. In theory, a shunt with a larger diameter can result in better stent patency, but it can also lead to reduced liver function and a higher incidence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) after the TIPS procedure. Therefore, the choice of covered stent diameter needs to consider the factors of shunt efficacy and postoperative liver function. At present, the diameters of TIPS-dedicated stents are typically either 8 or 10 mm. Whether stents with these two diameters can meet all the requirements of TIPS procedures is currently unknown. Different races, cirrhosis etiologies, and liver volumes may require different TIPS diameters. For example, in China, most cases of liver cirrhosis are caused by hepatitis B, resulting in the patient having a smaller liver volume. Therefore, in most Chinese studies, the diameters of TIPS stents are mainly 8 mm. Previous studies have shown that TIPS with an 8-mm covered stent has a shunt effect similar to that of a 10-mm covered stent; however, the incidence of postoperative HE is significantly reduced with an 8-mm stent (27% vs. 43%)14. Nevertheless, an 8-mm covered TIPS still has a high incidence of HE. The residual liver volume is small for patients with severe atrophic cirrhosis of the liver, and whether this necessitates a covered TIPS with a smaller diameter requires further study. However, there is still no dedicated TIPS stent that is \<8 mm in diameter. In this study, we propose an innovative strategy for the creation of a 6-mm shunt to determine if it can achieve a shunt effect similar to that of an 8-mm covered TIPS and reduce the incidence of HE in patients with severe atrophic liver cirrhosis.

EUS-guided Response Assessment to NSBB

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided portal pressure measurement can determine the treatment response to non-selective beta-blockers (NSBB) in patients with cirrhosis and clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). Participants will undergo EUS-guided portal pressure measurement before start of Carvedilol en after three months of treatment. EUS-guided measurements will be paired with transjugular hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement as well as non-invasive tests for assessment of portal hypertension.