Using ultrasound for real-time imaging in uterine cancer treatment

Acquisition of Trans-Rectal Ultrasound [TRUS] Images of the Female Pelvis for Real-Time MRI-US Fusion Based Needle Tracking for Image-Guided Brachytherapy: A Pre-feasibility Study

Observational Duke University · NCT05977621

This study is testing if combining ultrasound with MRI can help doctors place treatment needles more accurately for women with uterine cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment17 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexFemale
SponsorDuke University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Durham, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT05977621 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the feasibility of using transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) images of the female pelvis to enhance a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-TRUS fusion-based needle navigation system for image-guided brachytherapy in uterine cancer. The approach involves integrating TRUS with MRI to improve the precision of needle placement during treatment. The study will assess the effectiveness of this technology in both intact and post-hysterectomy patients, utilizing a proprietary 3D semi-robotic navigation system developed by Eigen Health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with histologically proven invasive uterine cancer who are undergoing curative-intent radiation treatment that includes brachytherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with active rectal bleeding or rectal ulcers may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate and effective brachytherapy treatments for patients with uterine cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar MRI-ultrasound fusion techniques in prostate biopsies, suggesting potential for this approach in uterine cancer.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histologically proven invasive primary squamous, adenosquamous, or adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix, (recurrent or medically inoperable) uterine adenocarcinoma.
* Treatment plan must include curative-intent definitive radiation that includes brachytherapy treatments with or without concurrent chemotherapy
* Adults ≥ 18 years of age
* ECOG Performance Status 0-2

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with active rectal bleeding or rectal ulcer

Where this trial is running

Durham, North Carolina

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 Uterine Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.