Radiation-Free Technique for Evaluating Renal Scarring (RAFTERS)
United States70 participantsStarted 2023-10-01
Plain-language summary
In this research study the investigators want to study a safe, radiation-free technique known as contrast-enhanced ultrasound that may improve the ability to diagnose or evaluate renal scarring compared to regular ultrasound. This technique requires injection into a vein of a small amount of contrast material called Lumason. Contrast material is a type of dye that helps the investigators image the structures in the body more clearly. If this technique is successful, the need for DMSA studies may be avoided to diagnose or evaluate kidney scarring. DMSA is a more expensive test, causes radiation exposure, may require sedation and/or injection of contrast agents with the potential to cause allergic reactions.
Who can participate
Age range
6 Months – 35 Years
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 older than or equal to 6 months and less than or equal to 35 years old and scheduled for Boston Children's Hospital (BCH) DMSA scan to evaluate renal function and/or renal scarring
Exclusion Criteria:
* patients with significant congenital renal anatomical abnormalities including horseshoe kidney, kidney malrotation, and multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK). Patients with severe cardio-pulmonary diseases will also be excluded.
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.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
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.
What they're measuring
1
Performance of CEUS result and comparison to DMSA
Timeframe: 3 months after final participant completes participation