Photon-counting CT for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial evaluates a new type of CT scan called photon-counting CT to assess its effectiveness in measuring lung problems in individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The goal is to determine if this scan provides accurate and consistent information about lung damage and airways. Participants will undergo both the regular CT scan and this new scan for comparison. Those already enrolled in the Duke COPDGene Phase 4 study and able to consent are suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased study, this trial offers participants the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research that could enhance diagnostic methods for COPD.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that photon-counting CT is safe for use in this study?
Research has shown that photon-counting CT (PCCT) scans are generally well-tolerated. Studies have found that PCCT can provide clearer images and help doctors make more confident diagnoses without increasing the risk of side effects compared to regular CT scans.
In this study, participants will undergo an additional CT scan using PCCT, which involves a small amount of radiation. This radiation dose is similar to what one would naturally receive from the environment over six months. It is considered low and generally safe for most people. Pregnant women are excluded from these scans to avoid any potential risks to the unborn baby.
Overall, evidence suggests that PCCT is safe for use in medical settings. For specific concerns or questions, discussing them with a healthcare provider is advisable.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about photon-counting CT for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because it offers a new way to visualize the lungs with much greater detail. Unlike traditional CT scans, which merge all types of X-ray energy into one image, photon-counting CT breaks down the energy into different levels. This allows doctors to see smaller structures and subtle changes in the lungs that might be missed otherwise. By potentially providing clearer images, this method could improve diagnosis and monitoring of COPD, leading to better patient management.
What evidence suggests that photon-counting CT is effective for evaluating COPD?
Research has shown that photon-counting CT (PCCT) scans provide more accurate and reliable results than regular CT scans for assessing lung conditions like COPD. Studies have found that PCCT delivers clearer and more detailed images, aiding doctors in distinguishing different lung tissues. This precision allows for more accurate measurement of lung issues like emphysema. In this trial, participants will undergo both energy-integrating CT scans and PCCT scans. The clearer images from PCCT enable doctors to identify lung problems more accurately, potentially leading to improved patient care. Early findings suggest that PCCT scans may be particularly useful for monitoring changes in lung health over time.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Ehsan Abadi, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Duke University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for participants already enrolled in the COPDGene Phase 4 study who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They must consent to an additional CT scan using a new technology. Pregnant women are excluded from this trial.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
PCCT Scan Acquisition
Participants undergo a photon-counting CT scan using a specific protocol at their Phase 4 COPDGene visit
Image Reconstruction and Analysis
Reconstruction of PCCT images with multiple post-acquisition parameter settings and application of harmonization techniques
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the PCCT scan
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Photon-counting CT
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Duke University
Lead Sponsor