3D Animation and Models to Aid Management of Fetal CDH
This study focuses on babies diagnosed with a condition called Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) before they are born. CDH means there's a hole in the baby's diaphragm, allowing organs to move into the chest. Researchers want to use images from routine scans (like MRI scans) to create special 3D animations and physical 3D models of the baby and their CDH. The main goals are twofold: first, to help expectant parents better understand what the problem is with their baby. Second, it allows the surgical team, who will operate on the baby after birth, to clearly see the size of the hole and exactly which organs are in the wrong place, helping them plan the best possible care.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When a baby is diagnosed before birth with a condition called Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), it can be a very challenging and confusing time for parents. CDH means there's a hole in the muscle that separates the chest from the tummy, called the diaphragm. Because of this hole, organs like the stomach or intestines can move up into the chest, which can affect how the baby's lungs develop.
This study is trying to make things clearer and easier to understand for families. Normally, pregnant mothers have scans as part of their routine medical care. The researchers want to take the images from these standard scans, specifically MRI scans, and use them to create two helpful tools: detailed 3D animations and physical 3D models of the baby and their CDH.
The main idea is that these 3D visual aids will serve two important purposes. Firstly, they will help parents get a much clearer picture of what the CDH looks like and how it affects their baby. This can be very reassuring and help them feel more prepared. Secondly, these models and animations will be extremely useful for the doctors and surgeons who will be caring for the baby after birth. They can use them to see the exact size of the hole and precisely where the organs are, which is vital for planning the baby's operation and ensuring they get the best possible care.
Key takeaways
- Uses routine MRI scans to create 3D models of babies with CDH.
- Aims to help parents understand CDH better.
- Helps surgeons plan operations for babies with CDH.
- No extra tests or procedures for mum or baby.
- Participation is voluntary and won't affect medical care.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for pregnant women who are attending the Jessop Wing Fetal Medicine Unit. You might be able to take part if your baby has been diagnosed with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) and you've been sent for an MRI scan to get a closer look at the condition.
You cannot take part if you are under 18 years old or if you cannot give your informed consent. This means you need to fully understand what taking part involves and agree to it freely. If you have difficulty understanding English, or if you have metal implants in your body or suffer from claustrophobia (a fear of tight spaces) which would make an MRI scan impossible, then you would also not be able to join the study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you pregnant and attending Jessop Wing Fetal Medicine Unit?
- Has your baby been diagnosed with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH)?
- Have you been referred for an MRI scan for your baby's CDH?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you understand information in English and feel able to make a decision about taking part?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you won't need to have any extra scans or treatments beyond what's already planned for your baby's care. The researchers will simply use the images from your routine MRI scan. There are no additional visits to the hospital required for the study itself, nor will you need to take any medication. The main involvement is giving your permission for your routine scan images to be used to create the 3D models and animations. There's no set end date for your participation within the study as it purely involves the use of existing clinical images, but your involvement effectively concludes once the models are made.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Jessop Wing HospitalVerified postcodeSheffield, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH)?
CDH is a condition where there's a hole in the muscle (diaphragm) separating the chest and tummy. This can cause organs from the tummy to move into the chest, affecting lung development.
Will I or my baby have any extra tests if I join this study?
No, you and your baby won't have any extra tests. The study uses images from scans you'd already be having as part of your normal medical care.
How does this study help?
It helps parents understand their baby's CDH better with 3D models and animations. It also helps the baby's surgeons plan the best operation after birth.
Can I still get the best medical care if I don't join the study?
Absolutely. Your decision to take part or not will not affect the excellent medical care you and your baby receive in any way.
Who can join this study?
Pregnant women attending the Jessop Wing Fetal Medicine Unit whose baby has CDH and is having an MRI scan, and who are over 18 and can understand and agree to take part.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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