New MRI dye could help doctors see bladder cancer depth without surgery

NCT ID NCT04369560

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: Jodi Maranchie Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase study tests a new MRI technique that uses two contrast agents (gadobutrol and ferumoxytol) placed directly into the bladder to improve staging of bladder cancer. Researchers will compare MRI images to actual tumor samples from surgery to see if the scan can accurately show how deep the cancer has grown. The study involves 42 adults with bladder tumors who are scheduled for either tumor removal or bladder removal surgery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Gadobutrol and ferumoxytol (contrast agents)
What this could lead to: If successful, this MRI method could help doctors more accurately determine bladder cancer stage without invasive biopsies.
What could go wrong: This is a very early phase 1 study with only 42 people. The new MRI technique may not be more accurate than current methods, and there are risks from the contrast agents and catheter placement.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bladder papillary urothelial carcinoma infiltrating bladder urothelial carcinoma urinary bladder carcinoma urinary bladder neoplasm Urinary Bladder Neoplasms

As listed by the trial registrant

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

URINARY BLADDER NEOPLASMS

Contacts and locations

Locations

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center - Dept of Urology
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15232, United States

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