Predicting stroke risk using advanced MRI techniques
Predicting Stroke Risk in Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease With Novel High Resolution, Functional and Molecular MRI Techniques
This study is testing new MRI scans to see if they can help identify patients with narrowed brain arteries who are at high risk for stroke, so doctors can make better treatment decisions.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Northwestern University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT05515874 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to reduce the incidence of stroke in patients with intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAD) by identifying those at highest risk through novel MRI scans. It focuses on symptomatic patients with moderate to severe stenosis and evaluates their cerebrovascular reserve and plaque characteristics. The study compares these advanced imaging techniques to established methods to better inform treatment decisions, including potential interventions like stenting or new medical therapies. By identifying vulnerable patients, the study seeks to improve management protocols and reduce recurrent strokes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are symptomatic adults aged 18 to 85 with diagnosed intracranial atherosclerosis and significant stenosis.
Not a fit: Patients with standard contraindications to MRI or those without significant intracranial stenosis may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective prevention strategies for recurrent strokes in high-risk patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored advanced imaging techniques for stroke risk assessment, but this approach is particularly novel in its focus on ICAD and specific imaging modalities.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age greater than 18 - 85 years * All symptomatic patients referred to the Stroke Neurology, Cerebrovascular Surgery, or Interventional Neuroradiology inpatient/outpatient clinical services at Northwestern University or the University of Chicago with diagnosis of intracranial atherosclerosis. * CTA/MRA/DSA imaging findings confirm the presence of moderate to severe stenosis \>50% of ≥ 1 segment of the supra-clinoid ICA, A1-A2 ACA, M1-M2 MCA, distal vertebral-basilar artery, P1-P2 PCA and complete cervical or intracranial carotid occlusions utilizing the SAMMPRIS stenosis criteria (3) Symptomatic patients defined as an association between the intracranial stenosis and perfusion/thromboembolic ischemia related symptoms of the corresponding vascular territory, based on either neurological exam (TIAs/stroke) and/or acute/subacute infarcts documented on MR-DWI within 7 days of presentation. Exclusion Criteria: * Standard contraindications to MRI: claustrophobia, metallic implants, pacemaker, compromised kidney function (GFR \< 40 ml/min), history of reaction to MRI contrast agent, history of allergic reactions to ferumoxytol or other IV iron products, * elderly patients \> 85 years * multiple or serious medical conditions, or history of multiple drug allergies Other confounders of neuro-functional exams, i.e. Alzheimer's Disease or dementia. * Severe \>70% cervical carotid or vertebral artery proximal stenosis, or tandem intracranial stenosis VULNERABLE POPULATIONS N/A
Where this trial is running
Chicago, Illinois
- Northwestern University — Chicago, Illinois, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sameer A Ansari, MD, PhD — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Sameer A Ansari, MD, PhD
- Email: s-ansari@northwestern.edu
- Phone: 215-740-0191
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.