Plain-English translation of NCT04399941 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This trial is testing intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)—a special imaging technique that uses sound waves from inside blood vessels—to diagnose problems with dialysis access in people with end-stage kidney disease. Currently, doctors use a different imaging method called venography, but this study wants to see if intravascular ultrasound can provide better information and help doctors understand access problems more clearly.
Many dialysis patients develop scar tissue and narrowing in their veins caused by long-term use of dialysis catheters. The current imaging method has limitations, and doctors believe this new ultrasound technique could detect and evaluate these problems more accurately, which would help improve dialysis treatment.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
If you join this study, you will receive the standard diagnostic imaging test (fistulogram) along with the new ultrasound imaging technique. Both procedures will be done together to compare how well each one shows what's happening with your dialysis access. The study team will then analyze the images to see if the ultrasound provides helpful additional information.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 3, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Sponsor
Boston Medical Center
Collaborators
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Enrollment target
~50 participants
Started
August 2021
Primary completion
September 2026
Age range
18 Years – 85 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in December 2025.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Vipul Chitalia, MD PhD
Boston Medical Center
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.