Exploratory study of the performance of dynamic PET-CT acquisition to predict 6-month morphological response in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with selective internal radiotherapy
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common form of primary liver cancer. One treatment option is selective internal radiotherapy, or SIRT, which delivers tiny radioactive beads directly to the tumour to destroy cancer cells. At present, doctors usually have to wait several months to see if SIRT has worked. This study explores whether an advanced imaging technique called dynamic PET-CT can give earlier answers. Unlike a standard scan that takes a single still picture, a dynamic scan watches how a special tracer moves through the tumour over time. Researchers want to find out if the information from this dynamic scan can accurately predict whether the tumour will have shrunk six months after treatment. Adults aged 18 and over who are already due to have SIRT may be able to join. Taking part will not replace standard cancer care.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of cancer that starts in the liver. A common treatment for this condition is selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT). During SIRT, a doctor places tiny radioactive beads into the blood vessels that supply the liver tumour. These beads give off radiation directly inside the cancer while aiming to spare the healthy liver tissue around it.
After having SIRT, it can take months of waiting and follow-up scans to know for sure if the tumour has responded and shrunk. Researchers in this study want to find a way to predict the outcome much earlier. They are testing a scanning method known as 'dynamic PET-CT'. While standard scans only capture a static picture of the liver, dynamic scans take continuous images over time to track blood flow and biological activity.
By studying these dynamic images, the team hopes to identify clear patterns that show whether the radiation is working. If the scan can reliably predict the tumour's response at six months, future doctors may be able to personalise care more quickly, switching treatments earlier if needed or offering reassurance sooner.
Key takeaways
- Tests whether an advanced dynamic PET-CT scan can predict liver cancer treatment success.
- Open to adults aged 18 and over with HCC who are scheduled to receive SIRT.
- The study tracks whether tumours have shrunk six months after treatment.
- Taking part involves an extra or adapted scan but does not change your main treatment.
- Your standard NHS care and treatment decisions will continue as normal.
Who may be eligible?
This study is designed for adults aged 18 or older who have been diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer) and are already scheduled to receive selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT).
You will need to be well enough to attend hospital appointments and able to lie flat and still inside a scanner for the required time. Both men and women can take part.
You may not be eligible if you have severe kidney problems, known severe allergies to the imaging tracers used, or other medical conditions that make having a PET-CT scan unsafe. Your hospital care team can confirm if your specific treatment plan makes you a good match.
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 older.
- I have been diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer).
- My doctors have already recommended and scheduled me for SIRT treatment.
- I am able to lie flat and still inside an imaging scanner.
- I am willing to attend hospital appointments and follow-up scans.
What does participation involve?
Taking part in this study takes place alongside your regular liver cancer care. You will have a dynamic PET-CT scan around the time of your SIRT treatment. During the scan, a small tube (cannula) is placed in your vein to give you a harmless imaging tracer, and you will lie still inside a ring-shaped scanner while pictures are taken. You will receive your planned SIRT procedure as normal. Around six months later, you will have routine follow-up scans to check how your tumour has responded. Your participation will last approximately six to seven months, matching your standard hospital follow-up schedule.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
What is the difference between a normal scan and a dynamic scan?
A standard scan takes a single snapshot of your body. A dynamic scan takes multiple continuous pictures over time to watch how a tracer fluid moves through the tumour.
Will taking part delay my cancer treatment?
No. The study scan is scheduled around your normal treatment, so your SIRT procedure should go ahead as planned.
Does a PET-CT scan hurt?
No, the scan itself is completely painless. You may feel a brief pinch when the cannula is inserted into your arm.
Will I have to stay overnight in hospital for the scan?
No. PET-CT scans are done as outpatient visits, meaning you can usually go home the same day.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can leave the study at any time without giving a reason, and your regular NHS treatment will continue as normal.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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