Using MRI to improve radiation therapy planning and response assessment
Official title: Development and Evaluation of Imaging Acquisition and Analysis Methods for Optimization of MRI and/or CT in Radiation Oncology Simulation, Treatment Planning, and Response Assessment
Run by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center · NCT02422550 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new MRI and CT imaging techniques to see if they can help cancer patients get better radiation therapy and understand how well their treatment is working.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 937 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | Radiation |
| Locations | 7 sites (Basking Ridge, New Jersey and 6 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 9, 2015 |
| Main results expected | April 2027 |
| Study ends | April 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 11, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT02422550 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who are undergoing radiation therapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who cannot undergo MRI due to medical contraindications, such as having a pacemaker or being pregnant, will 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 study explores the use of advanced MRI and CT imaging techniques to enhance the planning and assessment of radiation therapy for cancer patients. It aims to demonstrate the feasibility of new imaging hardware and software, including the MR-Linac, which integrates radiation treatment with MRI scanning. By modifying pulse sequences and imaging protocols, the research seeks to improve the quality of MRI-guided radiation treatment and assess tumor responses more effectively. The study will involve ongoing evaluations of these imaging technologies to facilitate their clinical application.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more precise and effective radiation therapy for cancer patients, improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for radiation therapy, but this specific approach with the MR-Linac is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Men and women age 18 or older Exclusion Criteria: * Anyone who would be normally excluded from undergoing an MRI examination as per Memorial Hospital for Cancer and Allied Diseases Screening Questionnaire * Participants/volunteers with a pacemaker, aneurysm clip or any other condition that would warrant avoidance of a strong magnetic field * Female participants/volunteers who are pregnant or nursing * Participants/Volunteers who are unable to comply or complete the MRI exam due to claustrophobia or high levels of anxiety * Participants/Volunteers from the vulnerable population, as defined by 45 CFR 46. * Participants at higher risk due to age, frailty, or the emergent nature of their condition.
Where it's running
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Memorial Sloan Kettering Basking Ridge (Consent only)
Basking Ridge, New Jersey, United States Recruiting -
Memorial Sloan Kettering Monmouth (Consent only)
Middletown, New Jersey, United States Recruiting -
Memorial Sloan Kettering Bergen (Consent only )
Montvale, New Jersey, United States Recruiting -
Memorial Sloan Kettering Commack (Consent Only)
Commack, New York, United States Recruiting -
Memorial Sloan Kettering Westchester (Consent only)
Harrison, New York, United States Recruiting -
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
New York, New York, United States Recruiting
Show 1 more location
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Memorial Sloan Kettering Nassau (Consent only)
Uniondale, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nancy Lee, MD — Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Nancy Lee, MD
- Phone: 212-639-3341
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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.