Value of Radionuclide Cisternography (NCT02876614) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Value of Radionuclide Cisternography
113 participantsStarted 2005-01
Plain-language summary
Radionuclide cisternography (RC) is a nuclear medicine examination based on intrathecal injection of \[111In\]diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (\[111In\]DTPA). It is prescribed for two recommendations: detection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak/fistula and diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus.
In the search part of CSF leak/fistula, RC offers the benefit of a 24-hour study of CSF unlike other reference tests.
In addition to SPECT/CT imaging, the radiopharmacist performs sampling in nasal cavities and throat of the patient to collect a possible flow of CSF.
These samples are analysed by radioactivity measurements and bring an added value to the exam.
The interest of this examination for management of CSF leak/fistula remains unclear.
The aim of this study is to identify and analyse results of all RC examinations performed since 2005 in the Nuclear Medicine department of the Neurological Hospital.
The full analysis of patients will allow discussing the role of RC in management of CSF leak/fistulae in clinical practice.
Who can participate
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* patients who received a convocation for realization of RC (extraction with GERA, software of Nuclear Medicine)
Exclusion Criteria:
* patients who received a convocation for realization of RC with "valve" protocol
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Since this trial has already been completed, would my doctor be able to share or access any published findings about how well Radionuclide Cisternography combined with SPECT/CT imaging performed in detecting CSF leaks or fistulas?
2How does Radionuclide Cisternography with SPECT/CT compare to other imaging methods my doctor might already use to find a CSF leak or fistula — and would this imaging approach even be an option for my specific situation?
3Since this study is listed as 'Phase NA,' meaning it was likely a diagnostic or observational study rather than a treatment trial, does that mean participating wouldn't have involved any experimental treatment — and what would the practical difference be between this type of study and a standard diagnostic workup?
4If Radionuclide Cisternography isn't widely available at my current medical center, are there other facilities or specialists my doctor could refer me to where this type of imaging is routinely done for CSF leaks?
5Before considering any specialized imaging like this, should I first exhaust standard diagnostic options for my CSF leak or fistula, and how would my doctor decide when more advanced imaging like SPECT/CT cisternography is actually warranted for my case?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.