Developing ethical methods to detect consciousness in patients

Is this trial a fit for you?

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

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on creating an ethical framework for utilizing advanced neuroimaging technologies to identify consciousness in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC). It addresses the significant issue of misdiagnosis in these patients, where up to 40% may be incorrectly deemed unconscious. The study employs clinician questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to gather insights from patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals about the ethical implications of these technologies. By exploring these perspectives, the research aims to establish responsible practices for the implementation of neurotechnologies in clinical settings.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with prior or ongoing participation as subject in a research study using neurotechnologies for diagnosis and prognosis of disorders of consciousness (DoC) at Mass General Brigham
* Patients capable of understanding and answering questions in English
* Patients cble to provide informed consent
* Patients for whom MRI / EEG are administered for clinical detection of consciousness and/or neuroprognostication
* Family member or surrogate caregiver of patients who previously participated or are currently participating in a research study using neurotechnologies for diagnosis and prognosis of DoC at Mass General Brigham.
* Family Members / Surrogates capable of understanding and answering questions in English
* Family Members / Surrogates able to provide informed consent
* Family member or surrogate caregiver of patients for whom MRI / EEG are administered for clinical detection of consciousness and/or neuroprognostication
* Research Investigators involved with research responsibilities in designing or testing neurotechnologies on patients with DoC.
* Clinicians with clinical responsibilities caring for patients in behaviorally unresponsive state, defined as coma, vegetative state (VS), and low-level minimally conscious state (MCS).
* Selected leaders and advisors (Community and Thought Leaders) from brain injury associations and advocacy organizations, and policy-makers involved in decision-making impacting patients with DoC.

Exclusion Criteria:

None

Where it's running

• Massachusetts General Hospital
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Michael Young, MD — Massachusetts General Hospital
• Study coordinator: Michael Young, MD
• Email: Michael.Young@MGH.HARVARD.EDU
• Phone: 617-724-6352

Similar studies

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

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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.