MRI may replace spinal tap for predicting surgery success

NCT ID NCT01815775

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a special MRI scan (flow MRI) can predict how well patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus will respond to surgery. Currently, doctors use a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to make this prediction. The study enrolled 30 adults and measured cerebrospinal fluid flow using MRI. If successful, this could provide a non-invasive alternative to lumbar puncture.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If flow MRI proves as effective as lumbar puncture, it could offer a non-invasive way to predict who will benefit from surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase study with only 30 participants. The results may not be conclusive or apply to all patients.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

dementia normal pressure hydrocephalus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • CHU Amiens

    Amiens, Picardie, 80054, France