Study of How Handgrip Strength Affects Blood Flow and Pressure in the Portal Vein for Adults with Liver Cirrhosis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how handgrip strength relates to portal vein and left gastric vein pressure, blood flow velocity, and direction in patients with liver cirrhosis. This study aims to understand how muscle function might impact portal hypertension and the blood flow in varicose veins of the esophagus and stomach. It uses a multi-method design to explore the potential role of muscle strength as a non-invasive indicator for portal hypertension risk. Participants are divided into three groups for different measurement methods one group has portal and left gastric vein pressures measured before and after handgrip strength tests another group undergoes Doppler ultrasound to assess portal flow velocity and direction the third group receives endoscopic ultrasound to examine blood flow volume and direction in esophagogastric varices. Handgrip strength is measured with a Jamar Hand Dynamometer, with three attempts lasting three seconds each, spaced by one-minute intervals. During the study, researchers measure portal pressure, vein pressures, blood flow velocity and direction, varices diameter, heart rate, and blood pressure over several minutes around the handgrip test. Baseline blood tests and body measurements are also collected. The study includes monitoring of clinical and hemodynamic indices to assess the effects of handgrip strength on portal venous hemodynamics. Participation includes informed consent and clinical observation beginning in August 2025, with study completion expected by August 2026.

Effect of Handgrip Strength on Portal Vein Hemodynamics in Patients With Liver Cirrhosis