Using MRI to improve radiation therapy planning and response assessment

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

Observational Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center · NCT02422550

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 typeObservational
Enrollment837 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsRadiation
Locations7 sites (Basking Ridge, New Jersey and 6 other locations)
Trial IDNCT02422550 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who are undergoing radiation therapy.

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.

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 performed: Other studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for radiation therapy, but this specific approach with the MR-Linac is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Basking Ridge, New Jersey and 6 other locations

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 Radiation TherapyMRI15-073participants undergoing radiation therapy
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.