The MOMENTUM Study: The Multiple Outcome Evaluation of Radiation Therapy Using the MR-Linac Study
The MOMENTUM Study is an international project looking at a new, advanced way to deliver radiotherapy called MR-Linac. This technology uses MRI scans at the same time as radiation to target cancers like breast, prostate, lung, and others with much greater precision. Researchers want to understand if this more accurate treatment leads to better results for patients, such as improved survival, better control of their cancer, and fewer side effects. They are collecting information on how well the treatment works and its impact on patients' daily lives to improve the technology and ensure it's used effectively in hospitals. This study aims to make radiotherapy safer and more successful for cancer patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The MOMENTUM Study is an important international project looking into a new, advanced way of giving radiotherapy to people with cancer. Radiotherapy is a common and vital treatment, but it can sometimes cause side effects because it's hard to target only the cancer cells without affecting healthy tissues nearby.
This study focuses on a new technology called the 'MR-Linac'. Think of it like a highly advanced machine that combines a powerful MRI scanner with a radiotherapy machine. The MRI allows doctors to see the tumour very clearly in real-time while the radiation is being given. This means they can target the cancer with much greater accuracy, potentially allowing for stronger doses to the tumour while reducing harm to surrounding healthy parts of the body.
The main goal of MOMENTUM is to gather information from many patients with different types of cancer – such as breast, prostate, lung, and brain cancer – who are being treated with the MR-Linac. By doing this, researchers hope to understand if this precise treatment leads to better outcomes. This includes seeing if it improves patients' chances of survival, helps control the cancer more effectively, and reduces side effects, ultimately improving their quality of life. The study will also help improve the MR-Linac technology itself, making it even better for future patients.
Key takeaways
- The MOMENTUM Study helps improve precise radiotherapy for cancer.
- It uses a special machine called MR-Linac that combines MRI and radiation.
- The study gathers information from routine care, so no extra appointments are needed.
- It aims to make cancer treatment more effective with fewer side effects.
- Many different cancer types are included, like breast, prostate, and lung cancer.
- Your participation contributes to better future cancer care for everyone.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of the MOMENTUM Study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or over.
You would be eligible if you are currently receiving or have recently finished imaging or treatment using an MR-Linac machine for your cancer. Before joining, you'll need to read and sign a consent form, showing you understand what's involved and agree to take part.
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. These are generally the same reasons why someone might not be able to have an MRI scan as part of their usual care. For example, if you are pregnant or might be, feel very uncomfortable in enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), or have certain types of metal or electronic implants in your body that aren't safe for MRI scans.
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 having or have you had treatment/imaging on an MR-Linac machine?
- Can you provide written consent to join the study?
- Do you have any MRI contraindications (e.g., certain metal implants not approved for MRI, claustrophobia, or potential pregnancy)?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in the MOMENTUM Study, you won't need to do anything extra beyond your usual cancer treatment and check-ups. The study involves collecting information that is already generated during your routine appointments and treatments with the MR-Linac machine. This includes details about your initial diagnosis, the treatment you receive, any side effects you experience, and how your cancer responds to treatment. Researchers will also collect information from any MRI scans you have as part of your care. You will not have to take any new medications or attend additional study visits. The duration of your participation will depend on your treatment plan and follow-up schedule, as the study aims to track outcomes over time.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (18)
- Allegheny Health NetworkVerified postcodePittsburgh, United States· Recruiting
- Md Anderson Cancer CenterVerified postcodeHouston, United States· Recruiting
- Medical College of WisconsinVerified postcodeMilwaukee, United States· Recruiting
- Austin Health - Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research CentreVerified postcodeMelbourne, Australia· Not yet recruiting
- Insitut Jules BordetVerified postcodeBrussels, Belgium· Not yet recruiting
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre/Odette Cancer CentreVerified postcodeToronto, Canada· Recruiting
- University Health Network - Princess Margaret Cancer CenterVerified postcodeToronto, Canada· Recruiting
- Odense UniversitetshospitalVerified postcodeOdense, Denmark· Recruiting
- Universitätsklinikum TübingenVerified postcodeTübingen, Germany· Recruiting
- Università degli Studi di BresciaVerified postcodeBrescia, Italy· Not yet recruiting
- IRCCS Ospedale Sacro Cuore Don CalabriaVerified postcodeNegrar, Italy· Recruiting
- Netherlands Cancer Institute, Antoni van Leeuwenhoek HospitalVerified postcodeAmsterdam, Netherlands· Recruiting
Common questions
What is an MR-Linac machine?
It's an advanced machine that combines an MRI scanner with a radiotherapy device, allowing doctors to precisely target cancer during treatment.
Will I receive new or experimental treatment?
No, you will receive your standard cancer treatment using the MR-Linac. The study simply collects information about it.
What types of cancer are included?
The study looks at many types, including breast, prostate, lung, brain, and several others.
Do I have to do anything extra for the study?
No, your involvement means researchers collect data from your routine appointments and treatments. You won't have extra visits or tasks.
Can I leave the study at any time?
Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study whenever you wish, and it won't affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Tessa Leer
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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