RecruitingInterventional

Parallel transmit for 7T MRI imaging in epilepsy

About one-third of people with focal epilepsy still have seizures despite taking medication. For many, brain surgery can cure or greatly reduce seizures, but doctors must first pinpoint the exact area in the brain where seizures begin. Current standard hospital scans, such as 3T MRIs, do not always show these tiny problem spots clearly. This study at Cambridge University Hospitals tests an ultra-high-power '7T MRI' using a technique called parallel transmit. Regular 7T scans can leave dark, fuzzy patches in certain brain regions, like the temporal lobes. This new method aims to fix those blind spots and produce much sharper images. Taking part involves having a specialised 7T brain scan. Researchers hope these clearer images will give surgical teams the vital details they need to plan safer, more effective operations for people whose previous scans were inconclusive.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

150

Start

30 Jun 2023

Estimated completion

11 Nov 2029

Epilepsy

What is this study about?

Epilepsy is a condition that affects the brain and causes frequent seizures. For many people, medication keeps these seizures under control. However, around one in three people with focal epilepsy continue to have seizures even after trying different medicines. This can make everyday activities like driving or working impossible. In these cases, surgery to remove the tiny part of the brain causing the seizures can be life-changing, curing up to seven out of ten suitable patients.

To perform this surgery safely, doctors need an exact map of the brain. Currently, the NHS uses standard scans called 3T MRIs. While helpful, these scans often come back normal or unclear, leaving doctors unsure of where the problem lies. An ultra-powerful scanner known as a 7T MRI can show much finer detail, but it has a known drawback: it often creates shadowed, blurred areas around the temporal lobes, which is precisely where many seizures start.

This study is testing an updated scanning technique called 'parallel transmit' on a 7T MRI scanner. By sending radio waves from multiple points at once, the scanner can smooth out blind spots and produce clear, high-definition pictures of the entire brain. The goal is to prove that this technology works well in hospital practice, helping specialists find hidden seizure triggers and plan surgeries with greater confidence.

Key takeaways

The study tests an advanced 7T MRI scanning technique to find hidden seizure triggers in the brain.
It is aimed at adults with difficult-to-control focal epilepsy who are being considered for surgery.
The new method aims to fix dark or blurry patches that often affect standard 7T scans in the temporal lobes.
Participation involves having a detailed brain scan at Cambridge University Hospitals.
Taking part is voluntary and will not alter your regular medications or standard NHS care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is designed for adults aged 18 and older who have focal epilepsy that has not responded well to treatment. To be considered, you must have tried at least two different anti-seizure medications over the past two years without fully stopping your seizures. You should also be actively exploring the possibility of brain surgery with your medical team, and your previous standard (3T) MRI scans must have been normal or unclear.

You will not be able to take part if you are pregnant, have severe claustrophobia, or are unable to give informed consent. Because the 7T scanner uses an exceptionally strong magnetic field, people with certain metal implants, pacemakers, or medical devices that have not been certified as safe for ultra-high-field MRI cannot participate.

Your hospital epilepsy team will review your records to confirm whether this study is safe and appropriate for your specific situation.

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.

I am aged 18 or over.
I have focal epilepsy and still have seizures after trying at least two medications over two years.
I am currently being considered for epilepsy surgery.
My previous 3T MRI brain scans were normal or did not give a clear answer.
I do not have a pacemaker or any non-MRI-safe metal implants in my body.
I am not pregnant and do not suffer from severe claustrophobia.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part in this study primarily involves attending Cambridge University Hospitals for an ultra-high-field 7T MRI scan. Before the scan, the study team will go through safety checklists to ensure you do not have any metal inside your body that could react to the strong magnet.

During the appointment, you will lie flat on a padded bed that slides into the scanner tunnel. You will need to stay as still as possible while the machine takes pictures of your brain. The scanner makes loud tapping and buzzing noises, so you will be given earplugs or headphones to protect your hearing. You will hold an emergency call button to speak to the team at any time. The scan visit usually takes between one and two hours in total. There are no study medications to take, and no extra surgical procedures are involved just for being in the trial.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part is that the scan might reveal the exact spot causing your seizures, giving your doctors clearer guidance on whether surgery could help you. However, there is a possibility that the scan shows no new information and does not change your care. The physical risks are similar to any MRI scan: the machine is loud, the space is enclosed, and some people may feel slightly dizzy or warm for a short time while moving in and out of the strong magnetic field. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time without affecting your normal NHS treatment.

Locations (3)

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

Addenbrookes (Primary Site)
City only
Cambridge, England
Kings College Hospital (PIC Site)
City only
London, England
University Hospital Birmingham (PIC Site)
City only
Birmingham, England

Common questions

What is the difference between a normal MRI and a 7T MRI?

A 7T MRI has a much stronger magnetic field than the standard 1.5T or 3T scanners used in most NHS hospitals. This allows it to capture far more detailed pictures of brain tissue.

Does having a 7T MRI scan hurt?

No, the scan is painless. The machine does not touch you, but it is noisy and the tunnel can feel snug. You will be given ear protection and a call button if you feel uncomfortable.

Will taking part guarantee that I can have brain surgery?

No. The scan provides clearer pictures, but surgery is only offered if doctors find a clear, safe target and agree that an operation is the best choice for you.

Do I need to change my current epilepsy medication?

No. You should continue taking your regular prescribed medicines exactly as directed by your doctor throughout the study.

What happens if I feel too claustrophobic during the scan?

You can press the call buzzer at any moment. The team will stop the scan immediately and slide you out of the machine.

How to find out more

Thomas Cope

Thomas.cope@nhs.net +44 (0)1223216759 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.