Zero Echo Time MRI with pseudo-CT for lumbar spine bone problems
Official title: Multicentre Evaluation of Spinal Bone Pathologies Using Zero Echo Time (ZTE) Pseudo-CT MRI Sequences: a Clinical Implementation Study
Run by Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc- Université Catholique de Louvain · NCT07844577 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests MRI using pseudo-CT sequences (ZTE/UTE) to see if it can match or improve over CT for people with lumbar spine bone issues who would normally get a CT scan.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc- Université Catholique de Louvain Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Brussels) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | March 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | March 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 28, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07844577 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults requiring a CT scan for lumbar spine imaging who can consent and do not have MRI contraindications.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with contraindications to MRI or conditions where pseudo-CT MRI adds no diagnostic value may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study explores the use of Zero Echo Time MRI sequences, a pseudo-CT approach, to image mineralized bone in the lumbar spine. Adults needing a CT as part of their diagnostic workup for lumbar spine pathology will undergo MRI with the ZTE/UTE sequences in addition to standard imaging. The goal is to compare the diagnostic performance of these MRI techniques with conventional CT and MRI, and to assess potential impacts on patient management. The study addresses the feasibility, added value, and potential to reduce extra imaging by providing better visualization of bone structures such as cortical bone and fractures. Ethical consent is obtained, and data will be analyzed to determine accuracy, safety, and clinical usefulness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, MRI with pseudo-CT sequences could provide accurate bone imaging without additional radiation, potentially guiding management and reducing the need for separate CT scans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests pseudo-CT sequences can visualize mineralized bone, but direct clinical benefit compared with standard imaging is still being established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults requiring a CT scan as part of their clinical assessment for lumbar spine imaging who also provide informed consent to participate in the study. * Patients presenting with acute or chronic low back pain and requiring a CT scan for diagnostic purposes. Exclusion Criteria: * Contraindications to MRI, such as pacemakers, metal implants, severe claustrophobia, or pregnancy * Spinal surgery within the last six months. * Patients who cannot or do not wish to provide informed consent.
Where it's running
-
Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc
Brussels, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Frédéric E Lecouvet, MD-PhD — Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc- Université Catholique de Louvain
- Study coordinator: Frédéric Emmanuel Lecouvet, MD-PhD
- Email: frederic.lecouvet@saintluc.uclouvain.be
- Phone: 003227642793
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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.