Fiber-Optic Navigation During TIPS Creation: A Prospective Pilot Study (NCT07470515) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Fiber-Optic Navigation During TIPS Creation: A Prospective Pilot Study
Austria30 participantsStarted 2027-01
Plain-language summary
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation is an established minimally invasive treatment for complications of portal hypertension such as refractory ascites and variceal bleeding. A technically challenging step of the procedure is the puncture of the portal vein from the hepatic vein, which is usually performed under fluoroscopic guidance and may require multiple puncture attempts.
This prospective pilot study evaluates the use of fiber-optic navigation technology during TIPS creation. The system allows real-time three-dimensional visualization of guidewires and catheters and may improve spatial orientation during the procedure.
Approximately 30 patients with a clinical indication for TIPS placement will be included. The study will assess procedural parameters such as the number of puncture attempts, fluoroscopy time, radiation exposure, procedure duration, technical success, and complications.
The results may help to improve procedural efficiency and radiation safety during TIPS interventions.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age ≥ 18 years
* Clinical indication for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation according to standard clinical practice (e.g., refractory ascites or variceal bleeding)
* Ability to provide written informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* Inability or unwillingness to provide informed consent
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding
* Absolute contraindications to TIPS according to current clinical standards (e.g., severe right heart failure, uncontrolled systemic infection)
* Participation in another clinical study that may interfere with the results of this study
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Number of puncture attempts required to access the portal vein