Comparing MRI and CT for liver assessment in rectal cancer patients

Limerick - Liver Magnetic Resonance Imaging Before Treatment for Rectal Cancer. A Randomised Controlled Trial.

Not applicable Interventional Vastra Gotaland Region · NCT05215535

This study tests if a shorter MRI can give the same useful information as a special CT scan for checking the liver in patients with rectal cancer before they start treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVastra Gotaland Region Government
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Gothenburg)
Trial IDNCT05215535 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicentre randomized controlled trial investigates the effectiveness of an abbreviated MRI compared to a combined single venous phase CT with an additional 3-minute equilibrium phase for liver assessment in patients diagnosed with rectal cancer. The study aims to determine if the abbreviated MRI can provide comparable results in the pretreatment radiological workup, which is crucial for planning treatment strategies. By focusing on tumor characteristics and patient factors, the trial seeks to enhance the accuracy of local staging and metastasis evaluation in rectal cancer patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old who have been clinically or endoscopically diagnosed with suspected rectal cancer and are eligible for further radiological investigation.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those unable to undergo MRI due to claustrophobia or medical implants, as well as those diagnosed with benign rectal diseases or recurrent rectal cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning for patients with rectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that MRI is superior to CT for liver assessment, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults \>18 years of age
* Endoscopically or clinically diagnosed with (suspected) rectal cancer and considered for further radiological investigation
* Are able to understand trial information and provide oral and written consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients unable to undergo MRI (causes may include claustrophobia, presence of pacemaker or certain metal components in their body).
* Patients diagnosed with benign disease of the rectum or squamous cell carcinoma
* Patients diagnosed with recurrent rectal cancer
* Patients unable to understand the trial information

Where this trial is running

Gothenburg

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Rectal Cancerrectal cancerradiological examination liver
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.