Improving Brain Imaging for Children's Epilepsy Surgery

Novel DWI Methods to Minimize Postoperative Deficits in Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery.

['FUNDING_R01'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11110453

This project aims to create a new brain imaging tool to help doctors and families make better decisions about surgery for children with epilepsy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11110453 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

For children with epilepsy that doesn't respond to medication, surgery can be the best option, but it's important to understand the potential benefits and risks. This project is developing a special imaging technique called diffusion MRI, combined with advanced computer analysis, to map the brain more precisely before surgery. The goal is to identify the exact area causing seizures while protecting important brain functions like movement, language, and vision. This new tool will help predict the best possible outcomes, like becoming seizure-free and having better long-term thinking skills, while minimizing risks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is most relevant for children with drug-resistant focal epilepsy who are considering brain surgery as a treatment option.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have epilepsy or whose epilepsy is well-controlled with medication would not directly benefit from this specific surgical planning tool.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to safer and more effective epilepsy surgeries for children, resulting in fewer side effects and improved quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: The researchers have already established a foundation with diffusion-weighted imaging techniques, suggesting a basis for this advanced development.

Where this research is happening

DETROIT, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.