New ultrasound method could spare cirrhosis patients from painful liver needle test

This study looks at whether a combination of ultrasound and spleen stiffness measurements can accurately detect high blood pressure in the liver (portal hypertension) in people with cirrhosis. Currently, the best test involves threading a catheter into a vein in the neck, which is invasive and uncomfortable. The study will enroll 107 adults with cirrhosis and compare the ultrasound results to the standard invasive test. If successful, this could offer a safer, simpler way to monitor liver health.