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Developing Optimal Parameters for Hyperpolarized Noble Gas and Inert Fluorinated Gas MRI of Lung Disorders

Published: November 27, 2017

Primary Outcome Measures

  • Signal to Noise Ratio [ Time Frame: 2 years ]
    The primary objective of this study is to determine an optimized set of scan parameters that will produce clear, anatomically and clinically relevant images of the lungs for healthy participants and various types of lung disorder participants, and using one or more gas type (3He, 129Xe, PFP, SF6).

Secondary Outcome Measures

  • Correlation with PFTs [ Time Frame: 2 years ]
    The secondary objective of this study is to correlate the results with PFTs, including spirometry and plethysmography.

Detailed Description
MR images of the lung obtained using HP 3He, HP 129Xe, and inert fluorinated gases essentially show the distribution of the inhaled gas inside the lungs. Measurements can be performed on these images to provide additional information that can be related to pulmonary function.
Participation will involve at least two study visits. During the first visit, participants will provide written, informed consent, and undergo eligibility screening. Study drug administration, use of the investigational devices, and MR imaging for this study will be performed at the 3T Research MRI at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) will be performed at TBRHSC by a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) and an MR Tech will be present for the duration of participant scans.
Participants will be placed in the MRI with the appropriate chest coil wrapped around them like a vest. Several inhalation procedures will be carried out during scanning. Participants safety will be closely monitored throughout the entire study.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria
A healthy volunteer (i.e.: someone not diagnosed with a lung disorder written below; this may include smokers who have not been diagnosed with a lung disorder)

Has been diagnosed with one of the following respiratory disorders: lung transplants, lung resection, lung cancer, asthma, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, mesothelioma, asbestosis, pulmonary embolism, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis, seasonal allergies, pneumonia, cold virus, lung infection, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary dysplasia, obstructive sleep apnea

Able to provide informed consent

Healthy volunteers enrolled in this study must be able to hold their breath for 25 seconds

Lung disorder participants must be able to hold their breath for 15 seconds
Exclusion Criteria
Have contraindication to MR imaging (i.e. ferrous implants, cardiac pacemakers) – determined by MR screening prior to scans.

Have a history of claustrophobia.

Female exclusion only: are or may be pregnant.

Requires an oxygen mask and cannot use a nasal cannula.

Blood oxygen saturation is below 92% (measured at rest in a sitting position, and with an O2 nasal cannula if the participant normally uses one).

Has had an acute respiratory infection in the past 10 days.

Is a student currently enrolled in a course at Lakehead University where the Principal Investigator (PI) is the instructor.

Is a student currently enrolled in a degree program at Lakehead University where the PI is their direct thesis supervisor.

Is currently an employee of the PI at the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute (TBRRI) and/or Lakehead University.
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