AuthorisedTherapeutic use (Phase IV)Interventional

A single centre parallel-group randomized control trial of Magnetic Resonance Assessment of Variations in Effects of anaesthesia on renaL perfusion in children

Doctors are trying to understand if certain anaesthetic drugs affect how well children's kidneys work after surgery. This study compares two common anaesthetics, propofol and sevoflurane, to see if one is kinder to the kidneys. Sometimes, after an operation, children can develop a condition called Post-operative Acute Kidney Injury, where the kidneys temporarily stop working as well as they should. We will use a special type of MRI scan to measure the blood flow to the kidneys during anaesthesia. By looking at these measurements, the researchers hope to learn if one of these anaesthetics is better at keeping kidney blood flow healthy, which could help prevent kidney problems in the future. This research is important for improving care for children undergoing surgery.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic use (Phase IV)

Sponsor

Region Uppsala

Enrolment target

Start

26 Sep 2025

Post-operative Acute Kidney Injury

What is this study about?

When children have an operation, they need anaesthesia to make sure they don't feel any pain. There are different types of anaesthetic drugs that doctors can use. This study is looking into two common types: propofol and sevoflurane. Researchers want to find out if one of these drugs is better than the other at keeping a child's kidneys healthy during and after surgery.

Sometimes, after an operation, a child's kidneys might not work as well as they should. This is called 'Post-operative Acute Kidney Injury'. It means the kidneys have a temporary problem filtering the blood properly. This study is trying to understand if the choice of anaesthetic might play a role in preventing this problem.

To do this, the study will use special MRI scans, like advanced photographs, to measure how much blood is flowing to the kidneys while a child is having anaesthesia for their operation. They will also look at other things, like oxygen levels in the kidneys and certain substances in the blood, to get a full picture of how the kidneys are being affected.

Key takeaways

Compares two common anaesthetics, propofol and sevoflurane.
Investigates effects on kidney blood flow and health during surgery.
Uses special MRI scans while the child is already under anaesthesia.
Aims to improve kidney protection for children having operations.
Participation involves no extra hospital visits after discharge.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to both boys and girls of any age who are having surgery and will need anaesthesia. The doctors will determine if a child is a good fit for this research when they are planning their operation.

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.

Is your child scheduled for an operation requiring anaesthesia?
Will your child be having anaesthesia with either propofol or sevoflurane?
Are you happy for your child to have a special MRI scan during their operation?
Are you happy for your child to provide a small extra blood sample during their operation?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If your child takes part in this study, they would receive either propofol or sevoflurane for their anaesthesia, as chosen by the study team. During their operation, a special type of MRI scan will be used to measure blood flow and oxygen levels in their kidneys. This is an extra step built into their existing hospital visit for surgery. There might also be a small extra blood sample taken during the operation to check certain kidney markers. The total duration of participation would be during their hospital stay for surgery, with no extra visits required after they go home.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help doctors learn more about how to protect children's kidneys during surgery, which could benefit many children in the future. There are no direct personal benefits from taking part, as the study is about understanding the effects of commonly used drugs. The risks involved are minimal, as the anaesthetics used are standard, and the MRI scans are non-invasive. You have the right to withdraw your child from the study at any time without affecting their medical care.

Locations (1)

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

—
Unverified
Sweden

Common questions

What is 'Post-operative Acute Kidney Injury'?

It's a temporary problem where a child's kidneys don't work as well as they should for a short period after an operation.

Are the anaesthetics used in this study safe?

Yes, both propofol and sevoflurane are commonly used and very safe anaesthetics given to children every day for operations.

Will my child need extra procedures or medicines?

No, your child will receive one of the standard anaesthetics. The extra steps are mainly special MRI scans during the operation and possibly an extra small blood sample, all done while they are already asleep for surgery.

How long will my child be in the study?

Participation is focused on the time during and immediately after their operation and hospital stay. There are no extra follow-up visits specifically for the study after they leave the hospital.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of organs inside the body. It does not use X-rays.