AuthorisedPhase II and Phase III (Integrated)Interventional

Contrast enhanced ultrasound a novel technique in lymphatic imaging - A prospective study

This research is testing a new way to get a clear picture of your body's lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is like a network of vessels that helps your body fight infections and drain excess fluid. Currently, it can be tricky to see these vessels clearly. In this study, doctors inject a tiny amount of a special liquid, called Sonazoid, which makes the lymphatic vessels stand out on an ultrasound scan. This helps them see these vessels more easily. They are trying to find out if this improved way of looking at the lymphatic system can help doctors understand and treat conditions better. It's a study combining two stages of research to learn as much as possible.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Phase II and Phase III (Integrated)

Sponsor

Kuopio University Hospital

Enrolment target

100

Start

04 Dec 2024

Lymphatic Imaging

What is this study about?

You might be wondering what this study is all about. It's focused on finding a better way to look at your lymphatic system. Imagine your body has a drainage network, much like roads and pipes in a town. This is your lymphatic system. It helps your body get rid of waste, fight off germs, and manage fluid levels. Sometimes, doctors need to see these lymphatic 'roads' clearly to understand what might be going wrong if you're not feeling well.

Currently, it can be hard to get a really good picture of these small lymphatic vessels. This study is testing a new technique called 'contrast-enhanced ultrasound'. This involves using a special liquid called Sonazoid. When this liquid is injected, it makes the lymphatic vessels much easier to see on an ultrasound scan, which uses sound waves to create pictures inside your body. Think of it like adding a special dye to water so you can see the flow more clearly.

The main goal is to see if this new method can give doctors a detailed view of the superficial lymphatic vessels — those closer to the surface of your skin. If it works well, it could help doctors understand many conditions better and potentially lead to earlier or more effective treatments for problems with the lymphatic system. It's an important step in improving how we diagnose and care for these conditions.

Key takeaways

Exploring a new way to see the body's lymphatic system.
Uses a special liquid injection with an ultrasound scan.
Aims to improve how doctors view lymph vessels.
Open to adults aged 18 and over.
Participation is voluntary and carefully explained.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. There's no upper age limit, meaning older adults are welcome to participate too. This study is open to everyone, regardless of whether you are male or female.

The research team will have specific health checks to make sure this study is right and safe for you. They'll look at your medical history and maybe do some tests. This is to ensure that participating won't put your health at risk and that the results from your involvement will be helpful for 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 18 years old or older?
Are you comfortable with receiving an injection?
Are you happy to have an ultrasound scan?
Are you interested in helping medical research?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, the main thing you'll experience is an ultrasound scan. Before the scan, a small amount of the special liquid called Sonazoid will be injected. This injection helps the lymphatic vessels show up more clearly on the ultrasound. You won't need to take any medication at home, and the entire process is focused on observing how the liquid helps with the imaging. The study team will explain everything in detail, including how many visits you'll need and how long each visit will take. They will also tell you about any follow-up appointments to check on you after the scan.

Potential risks and benefits

There are potential benefits as this study could lead to new ways doctors can look at and understand the lymphatic system, which might help diagnose and treat related conditions in the future. For you personally, there might not be a direct health benefit. As with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks, mostly related to the injection (like a small bruise) or a reaction to the special liquid, though these are usually mild and rare. The study team will explain all known risks. Remember, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Finland

Common questions

What is the lymphatic system?

It's a network in your body that helps fight infections and drains extra fluid, like a waste disposal and defence system.

What is an ultrasound?

It's a safe scan that uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of your body, without using X-rays.

What is Sonazoid?

It's a special, safe liquid injected into your body that helps make parts of your body, like lymphatic vessels, show up clearer on an ultrasound.

Will this injection hurt?

Like any injection, you might feel a small prick, similar to a blood test. The team will do their best to make you comfortable.

Do I have to do this?

No, taking part in any study is completely your choice. Your decision won't affect your regular medical care.