Blocking Abnormal Blood Vessels to Treat Severe Hepatic Encephalopathy
Part of Brain & nervous system, Digestive system, Hormones & metabolism clinical trials.
This trial tests a procedure to block abnormal blood vessels in the liver that bypass normal filtering, which causes confusion and brain problems in people with advanced liver disease. The goal is to reduce these episodes by redirecting blood flow through the liver where it can be properly cleaned.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You are 18 years or older with diagnosed cirrhosis (scarred liver)
- You have had at least 2 episodes of hepatic encephalopathy (confusion/brain fog from liver disease) in the past 6 months, even while taking lactulose and rifaximin medications
- You are currently admitted to the hospital with hepatic encephalopathy symptoms
- Imaging (CT or MRI scan) shows you have a spontaneous portosystemic shunt—an abnormal blood vessel that bypasses your liver
- You do not have severe fluid buildup in your abdomen that doesn't respond to medicine, active bleeding from enlarged veins, blood clots blocking your portal vein, or advanced cancer
- Your blood platelet count and clotting ability are adequate enough to safely perform the procedure
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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