Using advanced ultrasound to track blood flow in healthy and injured tendons
Official title: SUper-Resolution Ultrasound Imaging of Erythrocytes (SURE) in Normal and Tendinopathic Tendons
Run by University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg · NCT06142747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new ultrasound method to see if it can help spot differences in blood flow in healthy and injured tendons, specifically for people with overuse injuries like Achilles and patellar tendinopathy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 135 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Copenhagen) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 8, 2024 |
| Main results expected | January 2028 |
| Study ends | January 2028 |
| Registry record updated | January 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06142747 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 70 with a BMI below 30 who can lie still for the ultrasound examination.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or those who have had recent injuries to the tendon may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to evaluate a novel ultrasound technique called Super Resolution ultrasound imaging of Erythrocytes (SURE) to visualize and quantify the microvasculature in tendons affected by overuse injuries, specifically the Achilles and patellar tendons. Participants will undergo a non-invasive ultrasound examination to assess blood flow characteristics and vessel structure, comparing those with tendinopathy to healthy individuals. The study seeks to determine if SURE can detect subtle differences in blood vessel characteristics that may aid in diagnosing and treating tendon injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic methods for tendon injuries, enhancing treatment strategies and patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While Doppler ultrasound has been commonly used, this study explores a novel approach with SURE, which has not been extensively tested in this context.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 to 70 years of age. * BMI below 30. * Able to lie still for 1 minute. * Capable of providing signed informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy. * Dementia. * Smoking. * Diabetes. * Arthritis. * Current or historical injuries to the tendon or surrounding tissue aside from tendinopathy. * Medical or surgical treatments for their tendinopathy that may influence blood flow.
Where it's running
-
Institute of Sports Medicine
Copenhagen, Denmark Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Rene B Svensson, PhD
- Email: rene.brueggebusch.svensson@regionh.dk
- Phone: +45 38635870
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.