New MRI scan could replace endoscopy for liver patients

NCT ID NCT04867954

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: University of Wisconsin, Madison Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 4 times

Summary

This study is testing whether a new type of MRI (4D flow MRI) can detect dangerous veins in the stomach and esophagus of people with cirrhosis, which can cause fatal bleeding. Currently, doctors use a camera down the throat (endoscopy) to check, but that is invasive and often unnecessary. The study will involve 146 participants, including healthy volunteers and patients with cirrhosis, who will undergo MRI scans before and after a standardized meal. If the MRI proves accurate, it could offer a safer, non-invasive way to identify those at risk and start preventive treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Ensure Plus® (standardized meal) and contrast agent for MRI
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a non-invasive way to identify patients at risk of variceal bleeding, reducing the need for regular endoscopies and potentially saving lives through earlier treatment.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage validation study, not a treatment trial. The MRI technique may not prove accurate enough to replace endoscopy, and results may not apply to all cirrhosis patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cirrhosis of liver esophageal varices Fontan-associated liver disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CIRRHOSIS, LIVER FONTAN PROCEDURE GASTROESOPHAGEAL VARICES

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Wisconsin, Madison

Madison, Wisconsin, 53704, United States

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