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Inferior Vena Cava Pressure as Alternative to Hepatic Venous Pressure for EUS-guided Portal Pressure Gradient Measurement

NCT07703540 · Status: COMPLETED · Type: OBSERVATIONAL · Enrollment: 40

Last updated 2026-07-14

No results posted yet for this study

Summary

This study investigates a new, simplified approach to measuring blood pressure within the liver (portal hypertension) using Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Portal Pressure Gradient Measurement (EUS-PPG). While this minimally invasive method traditionally relies on a hepatic vein as the baseline reference point, advanced liver scarring can make these veins twisted and highly difficult to access. To address this challenge, our study evaluates the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC)-the body's largest main vein-as an alternative reference site. Currently, it remains scientifically unproven whether the inferior vena cava or the hepatic vein provides the more reliable and accurate pressure reading for calculation, as anatomical distortion from cirrhosis can affect both areas differently. By measuring and comparing both venous compartments during a single, clinically scheduled endoscopy session, this study aims to determine if the pressures are truly interchangeable. Ultimately, this research will clarify which vessel serves as the optimal reference point, helping to establish a safer, more reliable diagnostic standard for patients with complex vascular anatomy.

Conditions

  • Cirrhosis
  • Liver Disease Chronic
  • Portal Hypertension

Interventions

DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

HVP-PPG and IVCP-PPG

During a clinically indicated endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), patients undergo portal pressure gradient (PPG) measurement using a linear-array echoendoscope and a dedicated needle system (22G or 25G). The intervention utilizes a transgastric approach to sequentially measure pressures in three vessels: a left intrahepatic portal vein branch, a hepatic vein, and the inferior vena cava (IVC). The IVC is safely punctured through a window covered by liver tissue. Pressures are measured in triplicate per vessel. This protocol uniquely calculates two distinct gradients within the same procedural session: HVP-PPG: Calculated as the mean portal vein pressure minus the mean hepatic vein pressure (HVP). IVCP-PPG: Calculated as the mean portal vein pressure minus the mean inferior vena cava pressure (IVCP).

Sponsors & Collaborators

  • University Hospital Muenster

    lead OTHER

Eligibility

Min Age
18 Years
Sex
ALL
Healthy Volunteers
No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start
2026-02-01
Primary Completion
2026-04-30
Completion
2026-05-15

Countries

  • Germany

Study Locations

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Entities

Diseases

Read the full study record

This page highlights key information. For complete eligibility criteria, study locations, investigator contacts, and the full protocol, visit the original record on ClinicalTrials.gov.

View NCT07703540 on ClinicalTrials.gov