Improving sedation methods to reduce brain dysfunction in ventilated children
Maximizing Efficacy of Goal-Directed Sedation to Reduce Neurological Dysfunction in Mechanically Ventilated Infants and Children Study (mini-MENDS)
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10912645
This study is looking at how different ways of calming young kids on breathing machines in the hospital can affect their brain health, comparing a common medicine with a newer one to see which is better for their recovery.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10912645 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how different sedation methods can affect the brain health of infants and children who require mechanical ventilation in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). It focuses on comparing traditional sedation using benzodiazepines with a newer approach using dexmedetomidine, which may reduce the risk of delirium and other complications. By analyzing the outcomes of these sedation strategies, the research aims to enhance patient care and minimize the negative effects associated with prolonged sedation. The study will involve monitoring the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of ICU stay, and overall cognitive outcomes in young patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and children who require mechanical ventilation due to acute respiratory or myocardial failure.
Not a fit: Patients who are not mechanically ventilated or do not require sedation in the PICU may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer sedation practices that improve recovery and cognitive outcomes for mechanically ventilated children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in adults have shown that using dexmedetomidine for sedation can significantly improve outcomes, suggesting potential success for similar approaches in pediatric patients.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SMITH, HEIDI A B — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: SMITH, HEIDI A B
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.