Non-invasive monitoring of brain blood flow and pressure in critically ill patients

SNSPD-DCS at 1064 nm for non-invasive monitoring of cerebral perfusion and intracranial pressure in the ICU

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10917051

This study is testing a new, safe way to check brain pressure and blood flow in patients with serious brain injuries, using a method that doesn't require any surgery, to help doctors make better decisions about their care.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10917051 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new non-invasive method to monitor intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in patients with severe brain injuries. By using diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS), the study aims to provide real-time data on brain perfusion without the risks associated with traditional invasive methods. This approach could allow for better management of brain injuries by enabling targeted interventions based on accurate measurements of blood flow and pressure. The research will involve critically ill patients in intensive care units who require close monitoring of their brain health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients over 21 years old who have suffered severe brain injuries and require monitoring of their intracranial pressure and cerebral blood flow.

Not a fit: Patients with mild brain injuries or those who do not require intensive monitoring may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective monitoring of brain health in critically ill patients, potentially improving outcomes and reducing complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using diffuse correlation spectroscopy for monitoring cerebral blood flow, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.