NCT07792200 · WellSpan Health
Repeat Biliary Point of Care Ultrasound for Detecting Early Acute Cholecystitis
What this study is about
The goal of this interventional, forward-looking study is to determine the clinical utility of a repeat point-of-care ultrasound of the gallbladder in adult emergency department patients with abdominal pain for which initial imaging is not diagnostic.
View original scientific description
The goal of this interventional, prospective study is to determine the clinical utility of a repeat point-of-care ultrasound of the gallbladder in adult emergency department patients with abdominal pain for which initial imaging is not diagnostic. The main question it aims to answer is: Does a repeat ultrasound improve early identification of gallbladder inflammation? Participants will undergo a repeat ultrasound of the gallbladder while still in the emergency department and will be followed up to determine subsequent diagnoses, disposition, consultations and other clinical information.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Repeat biliary point of care ultrasound
Repeat biliary point of care ultrasound to be performed 2-6 hours following initial ultrasound imaging study
Primary outcome measures
Number of patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis
Time frame: Within 30 days of enrollment
Diagnosis of acute cholecystitis
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- ≥ 18 years of age
- Presenting to the emergency department with abdominal pain with clinical concern for possible acute cholecystitis
- Initial biliary US interpreted as normal, equivocal or negative for acute cholecystitis
- 2-6 hours since initial biliary ultrasound with ongoing symptoms
- General surgery consult placed or additional non-ultrasound advanced imaging ordered
- Fluency in English or Spanish
Exclusion criteria
- \< 18 years of age
- \> 6 hours since initial biliary US
- Asymptomatic/resolved symptoms or pending discharge from the emergency department
- Initial ultrasound positive for acute cholecystitis or other findings to explain presenting symptoms
- Baseline ascites
- Prior cholecystectomy
- Unable or unwilling to provide consent
- Presenting to a facility other than study site emergency department
- Transferred patients from outside facilities
Where
- York, Pennsylvania
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations