Using MRI and ultrasound together to improve liver tumor treatment

Simultaneous MRI/US for real-time liver ablation guidance and confirmation

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-10897171

This study is testing a new way to help doctors treat liver tumors by using both MRI and ultrasound together, which could make the procedures more accurate and improve results for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897171 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing liver tumor ablation procedures by combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US) for real-time guidance. The project aims to develop a novel platform that integrates these imaging modalities to overcome the limitations of each, such as motion artifacts and poor tissue contrast. By utilizing advanced image registration techniques, the goal is to provide more accurate targeting of tumors during ablation procedures, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Patients undergoing liver tumor treatments may benefit from this innovative approach that seeks to optimize the precision of their procedures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with liver tumors who are undergoing ablation procedures.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to liver tumors or those not requiring ablation procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer liver tumor ablation treatments for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the integration of MRI and ultrasound for liver procedures is a novel approach, similar image fusion technologies have shown promise in other medical applications.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.