Ongoing Clinical Trials for Vesicoureteric Reflux
There are currently 2 clinical trials underway studying vesicoureteric reflux, focusing on improved diagnostic methods in children and pain management during surgical procedures. Vesicoureteric reflux is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder toward the kidneys, which can lead to urinary tract infections and potential kidney damage if left unmanaged.
Clinical trial locations
- Finland
- Sweden
Study on Diagnosing Vesicoureteral Reflux in Children Using Sulfur Hexafluoride and Technetium (99mTc)
This trial is taking place in Finland and focuses on improving the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux in young children. The condition causes urine to flow backward from the bladder toward the kidneys, which can result in repeated urinary tract infections and potential kidney damage over time.
Who can participate: Children under 6 years old who have experienced at least two urinary tract infections confirmed by laboratory culture testing are eligible. Both boys and girls can take part in this study.
Who cannot participate: There are no specific exclusion criteria listed for this trial.
What the trial involves: The study compares two diagnostic methods to determine which is more accurate in detecting vesicoureteral reflux. The first method, called Direct Isotope Cystography, uses a small amount of radioactive material (technetium) to create images of the bladder and ureters. The second method, Contrast Enhanced Voiding Ultrasonography, uses ultrasound combined with a contrast agent called sulfur hexafluoride to enhance imaging. Both substances are administered directly into the bladder through a small tube, and images are taken while the bladder is being emptied. This approach aims to provide clearer visualization without excessive radiation exposure, making it a potentially safer alternative for children.
Investigational methods being tested: The trial uses Direct Isotope Cystography and Contrast Enhanced Voiding Ultrasonography as diagnostic imaging techniques to detect the backward flow of urine from the bladder to the kidneys.
Study on Spinal Morphine, Intravenous Lidocaine, and Bupivacaine for Patients Undergoing Robot-Assisted Surgery for Kidney or Ureter Conditions
This trial is being conducted in Sweden and examines pain management strategies for patients undergoing robot-assisted surgery on the upper urinary tract. While the trial includes various kidney and ureter conditions, kidney reflux is among the conditions being studied.
Who can participate: Adult patients of any gender who are scheduled for planned (non-emergency) robot-assisted surgery on the upper urinary tract are eligible. Participants must provide both spoken and written informed consent after receiving detailed information about the study.
Who cannot participate: Patients with cancer or tumors in the kidney or ureter, those with kidney stones, and individuals with renal reflux are excluded from this particular trial.
What the trial involves: The study explores whether different pain management approaches can improve recovery after surgery. Participants are randomly assigned to receive one of several treatments: spinal morphine (injected into the spinal fluid), intravenous lidocaine (administered through a vein), or a combination of bupivacaine and adrenaline. The trial measures recovery quality using a patient-centered outcome scale called Quality of Recovery 15, which assesses pain levels, overall well-being, and other recovery indicators at various points after surgery. The goal is to identify which pain management strategy provides the best recovery experience for patients.
Investigational drugs being tested: The trial examines three pain management medications: bupivacaine (a local anesthetic that numbs specific areas), morphine (a strong pain reliever injected around the spinal cord), and lidocaine (a local anesthetic given intravenously). These medications work by blocking pain signals and reducing discomfort during and after surgery.
Summary
The two ongoing clinical trials for vesicoureteric reflux represent different approaches to addressing this condition. The Finnish study focuses specifically on improving diagnostic accuracy in young children through advanced imaging techniques, which could lead to earlier detection and better management of the condition. The Swedish trial, while broader in scope and covering multiple upper urinary tract conditions, includes kidney reflux as one of the conditions being studied and focuses on improving surgical recovery through optimized pain management.
Geographically, these trials are concentrated in Northern Europe, with one trial in Finland and one in Sweden. The Finnish study targets a specific pediatric population, while the Swedish study involves adult patients undergoing surgical procedures. This diversity in approach reflects the different aspects of managing vesicoureteric reflux across various age groups and treatment stages.