Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages Any age to 4 Months

Using MRI to study lung development in infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Official title: MRI for Quantitative Measurement of Pulmonary Growth and Development in Term and Extremely Pre-Term Babies in the BPD Center of Excellence

Run by Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati · NCT03657693 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing how MRI scans can help us understand lung development in premature infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia by comparing them to infants without the condition.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
AgesAny age to 4 Months
SexAll
Enrollment160 (estimated)
SponsorChildren's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Cincinnati, Ohio)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMay 4, 2018
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2028
Study endsDecember 31, 2030
Registry record updatedJanuary 7, 2026
Trial IDNCT03657693 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include any term age NICU patients without significant congenital or respiratory conditions.

Probably not a fit

Patients with conditions such as ECMO, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, or significant respiratory infections at the time of imaging 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 investigate the early development of lungs in infants, particularly focusing on those diagnosed with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD). Participants will undergo up to three MRI scans at different stages of their care in the NICU, alongside the collection of urine, blood, and respiratory samples. The study will correlate MRI findings with clinical outcomes and laboratory results to enhance understanding of lung development in premature infants. Additionally, a comparison group of non-BPD NICU patients will be included to gather data on normal lung development.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of lung development issues in premature infants, potentially reducing the incidence or severity of BPD.

How similar studies have gone: While this approach is observational and builds on existing knowledge, similar studies have shown promise in understanding lung development in premature infants.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* any term age NICU patient

Exclusion Criteria:

* \- ECMO,
* Evidence of congenital diseases that may affect lung development, such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia,
* Suspected muscular dystrophy or neurologic disorder that may affect lung development.
* Significant genetic or chromosomal abnormalities that may affect lung development
* Evidence of any respiratory infection at the time of imaging (imaging may be rescheduled for a common viral infection such as a cold).
* Standard MRI exclusion criteria as set forth by the CCHMC Department of Radiology. This includes any contraindications from tracheostomy tubes that are not MR compatible.

Where it's running

  • Megan Schmitt
    Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.