Measuring sodium levels in patients on haemodialysis using MRI

Sodium Accumulation Study in Haemodialysis: Brain Study

University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust · NCT05966116

This study is testing a new MRI method to see how sodium builds up in the bodies of people on dialysis and if it affects their thinking and heart health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust (other)
Locations1 site (Derby)
Trial IDNCT05966116 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate sodium accumulation in patients with end-stage kidney disease undergoing haemodialysis using a novel MRI technique called Sodium MRI (Na-MRI). The study focuses on understanding how sodium levels in various body tissues, including the brain, may contribute to cognitive impairment and cardiovascular issues in these patients. By measuring sodium levels non-invasively, the researchers hope to provide insights that could guide treatment strategies for managing hypertension and improving overall health in this population. The study will include patients aged 50-75 who have been on dialysis for at least three months.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients aged 50-75 years with chronic kidney disease stage 5 who have been on haemodialysis for at least three months.

Not a fit: Patients with active infections, malignancies, or those who cannot undergo MRI due to contraindications will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management of sodium levels in patients on haemodialysis, potentially reducing cognitive impairment and cardiovascular risks.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of Sodium MRI is a novel approach, previous studies have indicated the importance of sodium balance in kidney disease, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 50-75 years inclusive
* Male and female patients with CKD stage 5 receiving chronic haemodialysis
* Patient has been dialysis dependent for at least 3 months
* Must be able to follow simple instruction in English (on safety ground for MRI scans) and be able to understand the nature and requirements of the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active infection or malignancy
* Amputee
* Pregnancy
* Contraindication to MRI scanning including claustrophobia, pacemaker, metallic implants etc
* Unable or unwilling to provide informed consent
* Medical conditions or overall physical frailty precludes scan session in opinion of investigator
* Any condition which could interfere with the patient's ability to comply with the study

Where this trial is running

Derby

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Dialysis, Complications

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.