Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 and up

Comparing surgical and endovascular treatments for middle cerebral artery aneurysms

Official title: Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysm Trial: A Randomized Care Trial Comparing Surgical and Endovascular Management of MCA Aneurysm Patients

Run by University of Alberta · NCT05161377 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing whether surgery or a less invasive procedure is better for treating middle cerebral artery aneurysms in adults.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment400 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Alberta
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Edmonton)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMay 15, 2022
Main results expectedJanuary 1, 2036
Study endsJanuary 1, 2038
Registry record updatedMarch 13, 2026
Trial IDNCT05161377 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with documented MCA aneurysms, whether ruptured or unruptured, who are suitable for either surgical or endovascular treatment.

Probably not a fit

Patients with absolute contraindications to contrast material, AVM-associated aneurysms, or those unable to provide consent may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of surgical versus endovascular management for middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms, which are often challenging to treat due to their unique anatomical features. The study aims to gather evidence on the best management approach for both ruptured and unruptured MCA aneurysms, as current data is limited and inconclusive. Patients aged 18 and older with documented MCA aneurysms will be evaluated for eligibility, and both treatment options will be considered based on the clinical judgment of the treating team. The trial will assess clinical outcomes and complications associated with each treatment method.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide clearer guidance on the optimal treatment for middle cerebral artery aneurysms, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on aneurysm treatments, this trial specifically addresses the unique challenges of MCA aneurysms, making it a novel approach.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients at least 18 years of age
* At least one documented, intradural, intracranial aneurysm anywhere on the course of the MCA vessel, ruptured or unruptured. An untreated ruptured aneurysm (with delay in diagnosis) which is suspected to have occurred more than 30 days prior to study inclusion will be considered an unruptured aneurysm
* In the case of SAH, WFNS grade 4 or less
* The patient and aneurysm are considered appropriate for either surgical or endovascular treatment by the treating team

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with absolute contraindications administration of contrast material (any type)
* Patients with AVM-associated aneurysms
* Patients or caregivers unable to provide consent
* Poor grade (WFNS 5) ruptured aneurysms

Where it's running

  • University of Alberta
    Edmonton, Canada
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Tim Darsaut — University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
  • Study coordinator: Sudeshna Bhattacharyna
  • Email: sbhattac@ualberta.ca
  • Phone: 7804990974

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.