Recruiting

Comparing two imaging scans to detect liver cancer recurrence

Plain-English translation of NCT06537193 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated March 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 ·

What is this trial?

This study is testing whether an abbreviated MRI scan using a contrast dye called gadoxetic acid is as good as—or better than—a CT scan at finding signs that liver cancer has returned in people who had successful treatment. You would receive both types of imaging scans during the trial so researchers can directly compare how well each one detects cancer recurrence. This head-to-head comparison will help doctors choose the best screening tool for patients like you in the future.

After liver cancer treatment, patients need regular monitoring to catch any signs of recurrence early. Currently, both MRI and CT scans are used, but it's unclear which one is more effective and efficient for this job. This study will help doctors understand which imaging method is best for keeping watch over people who have been treated for liver cancer.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been treated for liver cancer with surgery or ablation and have gone at least two years without the cancer coming back
you are older than 20 years old
you are in good enough overall health to participate (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score of 0–2)
you have not received systemic chemotherapy, radiation, or other special treatments for your liver cancer
you are able and willing to attend study visits and follow the study schedule

You likely don't qualify if…

you have active or suspected cancer elsewhere in your body, or a history of other cancers with a high risk of return
you have serious medical problems that are expected to shorten your lifespan to less than 3 years
you have significant kidney disease with very low kidney function
you have severe liver disease (Child-Pugh class C)
you have a severe allergy to iodine-based contrast dye or cannot safely have an MRI scan

What participation looks like

You would undergo two rounds of imaging testing over about 4 to 8 months apart. Each round includes both an MRI scan (where you receive an injection of gadoxetic acid dye before the scan) and a CT scan (where you receive iodine contrast dye). If any suspicious spots are found, you would return for additional confirmation imaging. After completing both rounds of scans, you would continue in clinical follow-up for at least 6 more months so researchers can track whether cancer returns.

Comparing two imaging scans to detect liver cancer recurrence

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)