Evaluating a new MRI technique for visualizing bone structures without radiation

Single-center Prospective Comparison of Diagnostic Performance of Deep-learning Agumented UTE/ZTE MRI Sequences and Standard-of-care Low Dose CT for Rheumatologic Patients With Musculoskeletal Disease

Not applicable Interventional University of Zurich · NCT06579547

This study is testing a new MRI technique to see if it can safely show bone structures in people with joint diseases without using radiation, compared to regular CT scans.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Zurich Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Zurich)
Trial IDNCT06579547 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to assess the effectiveness of Deep Learning augmented Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DL MRI) in visualizing bone structures in patients with inflammatory and degenerative joint diseases, compared to traditional low-dose Computed Tomography (CT) scans. Participants will undergo both DL MRI and CT scans of the same body region to determine if DL MRI can serve as a radiation-free alternative to CT. The study focuses on the accuracy of DL MRI in depicting bone structures and its potential to reduce exposure to X-rays in future imaging practices.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals referred for MRI examinations of the musculoskeletal system to assess joint inflammation or degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years of age, pregnant women, or those with contraindications for CT examinations will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a safer imaging option for patients by eliminating radiation exposure.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of MRI for bone imaging is established, the specific application of DL MRI as a replacement for CT is a novel approach that has not been widely tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Referral for a clinically indicated MRI examination of the musculoskeletal system to assess inflammatory and degenerative joint changes.
* Willingness to sign the informed consent form.
* No contraindications for a CT examination (e.g., claustrophobia).

Exclusion Criteria:

* No signed informed consent form.
* Patients under 18 years of age.
* Pregnant women.
* The calculated effective dose of the CT examination exceeds 5 mSv.

Where this trial is running

Zurich

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 Joint DiseasesJoint Inflammation
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.