Using MRI to improve radiation therapy planning for cancer treatment
Official title: Judging MR Simulation Procedures: A Phase I-II Study of the Use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Simulation in the Planning of Radiation Treatments
Run by Brigham and Women's Hospital · NCT04545957 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether using MRI scans can help doctors plan better radiation treatments for people with different types of cancer, like prostate and liver cancer.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 86 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Brigham and Women's Hospital Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 14, 2020 |
| Main results expected | October 22, 2030 |
| Study ends | October 22, 2030 |
| Registry record updated | July 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04545957 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with confirmed malignancies requiring radiation therapy and an ECOG performance status of 2 or lower.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who cannot undergo an MRI or have a history of allergic reactions to gadolinium-based contrast agents 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 clinical trial evaluates the feasibility and efficacy of incorporating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) simulation into the planning of radiation treatments for various cancers, including prostate, liver, and head and neck cancers. The study is divided into two phases: Phase I focuses on determining the feasibility of using an MRI simulator for radiation therapy planning, while Phase II explores the efficacy of adjusting radiation therapy based on MRI simulation data. The trial aims to enhance the precision of radiation delivery to tumors by utilizing advanced imaging techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective and targeted radiation treatments for cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using MRI for radiation therapy planning, indicating that this approach is gaining traction in the field.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Participants must have a confirmed malignancy requiring radiation therapy. * Age: 18 years or older * ECOG performance status ≤2 (Karnofsky ≥60%, see Appendix A) * Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document. * Disease-specific eligibility criteria will be specified in the appropriate subprotocol. Exclusion Criteria: * For MRI involving contrast, history of allergic reactions attributed to gadolinium based IV contrast. Note: If patient will not receive contrast, this is not applicable * Participants who cannot undergo an MRI * Disease-specific exclusion criteria will be specified in the appropriate subprotocol
Where it's running
-
Brigham and Women Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting -
Dana Farber Cancer Institute
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Raymond Mak, MD — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Raymond Mak, MD
- Email: rmak@partners.org
- Phone: 617-632-5734
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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.