Tiny coil placed inside nose could help surgeons spot hidden brain tumors

NCT ID NCT03678389

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a small MRI coil placed inside the sphenoid sinus during pituitary tumor surgery. The goal is to see if it can provide clearer images of tiny tumors that standard MRI often misses. About 70 adults with pituitary tumors will take part. The coil is inserted through the same surgical opening used for the operation, and researchers will check for safety and image quality.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

endosphenoidal coil (ESC)

What this could lead to

If successful, this coil could help surgeons see tiny pituitary tumors during surgery, potentially improving removal rates and reducing the need for repeat procedures.

What could go wrong

This is a very early feasibility study with only 70 people. The coil may not provide clear enough images, or could cause minor bleeding or other issues during placement.

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.

pituitary cancer Pituitary Neoplasms pituitary tumor

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    RECRUITING

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••