V/Q MRI_Version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Assessing pulmonary ventilation and perfusion properties with MRI
IRAS ID
242337
Contact name
A John Simpson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 1 days
Research summary
In this study, we intend to demonstrate the feasibility of a novel approach to combined ventilation and perfusion imaging using MRI. This will involve optimising an established approach to perfusion imaging, known as dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE) MRI, in conjunction with a relatively new approach to ventilation imaging, using 19F-MRI of an inert gas (perfluoropropane). Our study represents the first time these two MRI techniques will have been used in combination.
The primary aim of our study is to assess the ability of these two methods to detect ventilation and/or perfusion defects in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary embolism (PE), compared to healthy volunteers. To achieve this, participants will be recruited to one of four study groups:
Group 1 will comprise 5 healthy volunteers, who will be recruited to optimise scan protocols for perfusion imaging using a 3T MRI scanner. Group 2 and Group 3 will comprise 5 patients with COPD, and 5 patients with PE, respectively. Patients will be recruited to undergo combined perfusion imaging (using an optimized DCE MRI protocol developed in study Group 1) and ventilation imaging (using 19F-MRI of inhaled perfluoroproane gas) within a single MR scan session. Group 4 will comprise a control group of 5 healthy volunteers. This will allow us to assess any differences in ventilation and/or perfusion properties measured in patients with respiratory disease (COPD and PE), compared to healthy volunteers.
If successful, our study offers potential for a novel approach to combined ventilation and perfusion imaging using MRI, with scope for providing an alternative to existing clinical ventilation/perfusion assessments that rely on radioisotopes or ionising radiation.
REC name
North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NE/0297
Date of REC Opinion
25 Oct 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion