Warrington

Researchers are evaluating the use of Targeted Sentinel Node Biopsy (TSNB) in patients with breast cancer who have limited nodal disease. This study focuses on patients with biopsy-confirmed axillary nodal metastases and aims to audit surgical outcomes of TSNB against sentinel node biopsy outcomes, arm lymphoedema rates, and disease progression. The research highlights the importance of assessing nodal tumour burden and compares TSNB with other treatments like axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and axillary radiotherapy (ART). Previous trials like AMAROS, OTOASOR, and POSNOC provide background on nodal treatment strategies and outcomes. Participants will undergo TSNB during primary surgery, where at least three lymph nodes, including a marked biopsy-proven positive node, are removed. Node marking can be done at biopsy or a separate visit using various techniques such as clips, dyes, or magnetic markers. The procedure follows a standardized approach adapted from the ATNEC trial, with either dual- or single-tracer sentinel node biopsy methods. If the marked node is not found or multiple black nodes appear, removal may stop after four nodes. The study focuses on patients with one or two macrometastases identified in the removed nodes. During the study, patients will be monitored for outcomes including the number of nodal macrometastases over 12 to 60 months, the identification rate of the marked node, and the false negative rate of the TSNB procedure. Arm lymphoedema will also be assessed up to 60 months. This audit collects data to benchmark surgical outcomes and evaluate arm morbidity and disease progression compared to existing trials, aiming to establish TSNB as a reliable staging method in this patient group.

Researchers are evaluating the Bridging Technique, a new method for treating nasolabial folds (smile lines) in adults aged 30 to 65 years. This technique uses very small amounts of hyaluronic acid filler placed in thin horizontal threads under the folds to gently lift and soften them. The study aims to determine if this method improves the appearance of nasolabial folds safely while maintaining a natural look and high patient satisfaction. Participants will receive a single treatment using the Bridging Technique with the dermal filler AILEENE Vol. 2 injected into both nasolabial folds. Each participant can receive up to 1.0 ml of filler total. An optional top-up treatment may be given at Week 2 or Week 4 if needed, using only the remaining filler allowance and a new sterile syringe. Follow-up visits occur at Week 2 (virtual safety check), Week 4, Month 3, and Month 6 with standardized photographs taken at Baseline, Week 4, Month 3, and Month 6 for blinded review. During the study, participants will complete questionnaires about their satisfaction and experience. Researchers will assess changes in nasolabial fold severity using a standardized scale at multiple time points. Safety will be monitored through virtual and in-person visits, and photographic documentation will support independent evaluation. The total study duration for each participant is six months following treatment.

This research aims to understand the genetic factors that contribute to the risk of giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). GCA is a serious inflammatory disease affecting blood vessels, mainly in people over 50, which can cause severe complications like vision loss or stroke if untreated. PMR causes pain and stiffness in the limbs with signs of inflammation. The study involves both patients recently suspected of having GCA and those with confirmed diagnoses from the past. It seeks to provide new insights into disease causes and improve diagnosis and treatment approaches. Participants are observed in a multi-center study collecting clinical and genetic data. The study includes both prospective patients with suspected GCA and retrospective patients with confirmed GCA or PMR diagnoses. Some retrospective participants receiving tocilizumab for recurring or difficult-to-treat GCA are also included in a safety monitoring registry. Data collected include clinical features, imaging, tissue and blood samples, and advanced genetic testing. The study also follows patients over time to assess disease impact, quality of life, and long-term outcomes. During the study, participants provide medical information, biological samples, and complete questionnaires about their symptoms and quality of life. Researchers monitor disease activity and treatment effects, especially among those starting certain immune-modifying drugs. The main measurements focus on genetic susceptibility at the study start, with ongoing evaluation of diagnosis, prognosis, and disease progression. The study is designed to improve understanding and management of GCA and PMR over time.

Researchers are evaluating the efficacy and safety of once-weekly injectable MET097 in adults who have obesity or are overweight with related weight complications, but who do not have type 2 diabetes. This phase 3, multi-center randomized controlled trial aims to understand how well MET097 works and how safe it is over a long period. The study will last 84 weeks, with the primary effectiveness measured after 64 weeks of treatment. Participants will receive either MET097 or a placebo, both given once a week by subcutaneous injection. The study compares these two groups to assess the impact of MET097 on weight and related health issues. The treatment period is followed by continued monitoring to evaluate longer-term effects up to 84 weeks. During the study, participants' body weight changes will be carefully tracked from the start through week 64, which is the main outcome measure. Additional health assessments will occur through the 84-week duration to monitor safety and overall responses. Participants will be supported and monitored regularly to assess the medication's impact and any side effects throughout the trial.