Feasibility Study of Phase-contrast MRI for Flow in the External Carotid Branches Arteries
This research is looking at a special type of MRI scan, called phase-contrast MRI, to see how blood flows in the arteries of your head and neck. These arteries are called the external carotid branches. Even though doctors know a lot about these blood vessels, this advanced MRI could help them learn even more. This new information could lead to better surgeries for various conditions affecting the face, head, and neck, such as certain birthmarks, problems after radiation treatment, or complex reconstructive operations. The main goal is to improve how doctors use this special MRI to understand blood flow, both in healthy people and those with specific health conditions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is using a detailed imaging technique called phase-contrast MRI. Think of it like a very clever camera that not only takes pictures of the blood vessels in your head and neck but can also measure how blood is flowing through them. This is very helpful because it gives doctors a complete picture – both what the vessels look like and how they're working.
The main reason for doing this research is to get a much better understanding of the blood supply to your face, head, and neck. While doctors already know a lot, this advanced MRI could offer even more detailed information. This improved understanding could be very important for future surgeries in this area. For example, it could help doctors plan operations for conditions like complicated birthmarks (arteriovenous malformations), help repair damage after radiation treatment, or improve complex facial reconstruction surgeries where tissue needs to be moved.
Ultimately, the study aims to develop and refine this special MRI technique so it can be used more effectively to understand blood flow in these specific arteries. They are looking at both healthy volunteers and people who have had certain medical conditions that affect these areas, to see how the blood flow differs and what this tells us.
Key takeaways
- This study uses a special MRI to look at blood flow in head and neck arteries.
- It aims to improve future surgeries for conditions like birthmarks and post-radiation effects.
- Researchers need healthy volunteers and people with specific medical histories.
- Participation involves an MRI scan; no medication or follow-up is required.
- Your contribution helps advance medical understanding for complex surgeries.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you would need to be between 18 and 70 years old. The researchers are looking for different groups of people.
They need healthy volunteers. They also need people who have had certain medical treatments in the past, such as radiation therapy to the head or neck (given at least a year ago), a procedure to block off some blood vessels in the external carotid artery, or specific facial reconstructive surgery at least a month ago. For everyone, it’s really important that you understand what the study involves and agree to take part freely.
There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. These include having certain facial health problems, a history of facial injury, other radiation treatment to the head or neck (unless it's the specific type they are looking for), or a past cancer in the head or neck area. Also, anyone who can't have an MRI scan for medical reasons (like having certain metal implants), pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those under legal guardianship wouldn't be able to participate.
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 between 18 and 70 years old?
- Can you have an MRI scan safely (no incompatible metal implants)?
- Have you ever had radiation treatment to your head or neck (at least a year ago)? (If yes, you might be eligible)
- Have you had certain facial reconstructive surgery at least a month ago? (If yes, you might be eligible)
- Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Do you have a current facial health problem or history of head/neck cancer?
What does participation involve?
This study involves undergoing a specific type of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan called phase-contrast MRI. You would likely have an initial screening to ensure you meet the study's health requirements. The MRI scan itself involves lying still in a scanner for a period of time, usually an hour or less. You wouldn't need to take any medication for the study, and there wouldn't be any follow-up appointments related specifically to the study after the scan. The total duration of your active participation would likely be limited to the time spent on screening and the MRI scan itself, potentially a single visit.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Departement of Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Amiens University HospitalVerified postcodeAmiens, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body without using X-rays.
Is the special MRI scan painful?
The scan itself is not painful, though you'll need to lie very still inside the scanner, which can be noisy and feel a bit enclosed for some people.
Why are they studying blood flow in these arteries?
Understanding blood flow better can help doctors plan more effective surgeries for conditions affecting the face, head, and neck.
Do I get any results from my scan?
This is a research study, so the scans are primarily for research purposes. You might not receive individual results, but this would be explained fully before you join.
How long would my involvement in the study last?
Your direct involvement in the study would likely be limited to a single visit for screening and the MRI scan.
How to find out more
Stéphanie DAKPE, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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