Using MRI to predict metastasis in soft tissue sarcoma patients

Prospective Study of Image and Blood-derived Biomarkers to Predict Metastasis in Soft-tissue Sarcomas

PHASE2 · University Health Network, Toronto · NCT05950594

This study is testing if a special type of MRI can help doctors see if soft tissue sarcoma patients have low oxygen levels in their tumors, which could help them choose better treatments right from the start.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment145 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto (other)
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT05950594 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) combined with intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) to assess tumor hypoxia in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS). By identifying hypoxia, which is linked to metastasis, the study aims to enable personalized treatment strategies at the time of diagnosis without adding significant burden to patients or clinical workflows. The approach leverages standard MRI techniques that can be performed quickly, potentially improving patient outcomes through better stratification for treatment. The study is conducted at the University Health Network in Toronto.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with grade 2 or 3 soft tissue sarcoma larger than 5 cm.

Not a fit: Patients who have contraindications to MRI scans will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective and personalized treatment plans for patients with soft tissue sarcoma.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using imaging techniques to assess tumor hypoxia, but this specific approach is novel in the context of soft tissue sarcoma.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 18 years
* Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document
* Grade 2 or 3 soft tissue sarcoma greater than 5 cm in largest dimension

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication to MRI scan as per current institutional guidelines (for patients requiring MRI)

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.