Ultrasound could replace MRI for preterm infant brain scans
NCT ID NCT05694611
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study aimed to see if contrast-enhanced ultrasound and elastography can measure brain blood flow and stiffness in preterm babies as well as MRI does. Researchers planned to scan preterm infants when they reached their due date and compare the results with standard MRI. However, the study was withdrawn before any babies were enrolled, so no results are available.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Sulfur hexafluoride (SonoVue)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could provide a safer, bedside alternative to MRI for evaluating brain health in preterm infants.
- What could go wrong
- The study was withdrawn before enrolling any participants, so no data were collected. The approach is still experimental and may not prove reliable compared to MRI.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Phase 3
Large-scale testing in a bigger group. Usually the last step before a treatment can be approved.
- Started
-
Jan 2024
- Expected to finish
-
Jan 2026
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
-
A government agency
The lead sponsor is a government body.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
-
3 weeks to 6 months
- Sex
-
Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Preterm neonates attending brain MR-imaging at term Exclusion Criteria: * Pre-known genetic disease * Difficult congenital malformations that need surgical treatment * Central nervous system tumors * Weight less than 2,5 kg during examination * Medical history of SonoVue hypersensitivity * Uncontrolled systemic hypertension * Systolic pulmonary artery pressure \> 90 mmHg * Unstable cardiovascular state
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Turku University Hospital
Turku, Southwestern Finland, 20520, Finland
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