The Rhea-study is a multicenter prospective diagnostic proof-of-concept study
There is an unquestionable need for improved diagnostic approaches for (incidental) SVT. The researchers plan to evaluate the MRDTI technique, that has been shown to be accurate in other settings of difficult-to-diagnosis venous thrombosis, for the notoriously challenging diagnosis of incidental SVT. This study targets an important unmet need and will provide the basis for precision medicine for patients with SVT in the near future, i.e. the possibility of assessment of the age of the thrombus in patients with incidental SVT, which is of utmost importance for determination of the indication for anticoagulant therapy.
If this hypothesis is proven true, i.e. sensitivity of MRDTI for SVT is indeed \>90%, the investigators will proceed with performing a randomized controlled outcome study in which patients with possible/probable chronic SVT with normal MRDTI test results and no other indications for anticoagulant therapy. These patients will be randomized between active therapeutically dosed anticoagulation versus no anticoagulation, to compare clinical outcome with regard to the occurrence of venous thromboembolism and/or Progressive symptomatic SVT as well as major bleeding.
Who can participate
Age range
18 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 with confirmed acute SVT; definitions provided in paragraph 4.2 (Cases, group 1)
. Patients with confirmed non-symptomatic chronic SVT defined by incident SVT with chronic thrombi on 2 serial imaging tests with at least 3 months interval (controls, group 2)
. Aged 18 years and older
. Willing and able to give informed consent
Exclusion criteria
. MRI contra-indication (including but not limited to a cardiac pacemaker or subcutaneous defibrillator; vascular clips in the cerebral vessels; metal splinter in the eye, a hearing aid that cannot be removed; a neurostimulator that cannot be removed; a hydrocephalus pump)
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
Diagnostic accuracy of MRDTI
Timeframe: This outcome will be analysed after adjudication, after the follow-up period of 3 months.
. A medical condition, associated illness or co-morbid circumstances that precludes completion of the study procedures (MRI and 90-day follow-up assessment), including but not limited to lifeexpectancy less than 3 months, inability to lie flat, morbid obesity preventing use of MR and claustrophobia.
. Patients with decompensated liver disease with Child-Pugh class C cirrhosis (since MRDTI evaluation will be inadequate in these patients)