Evaluating sedation effectiveness with dexmedetomidine in children undergoing brain MRI
Official title: Study of the Efficacy of Moderate Sedation With Intra-NAsal Dexmedetomidine Monitored by EEG MOnitoring
Run by Centre Hospitalier Régional Metz-Thionville · NCT06867289 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a nasal spray of dexmedetomidine can safely and effectively help children aged 12 months to 18 years relax during a brain MRI.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 1 Year to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Centre Hospitalier Régional Metz-Thionville Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Metz) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 8, 2025 |
| Main results expected | April 8, 2027 |
| Study ends | April 8, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | March 12, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06867289 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include children aged 12 months to 18 years requiring sedation for brain MRI, especially those with compromised cooperation.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients under 10 kg, those with contraindications to DEX, or those with nasal obstruction 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 study aims to assess the efficacy of moderate sedation using intra-nasal dexmedetomidine (DEX) in children undergoing brain MRI. It focuses on utilizing a sedation score derived from electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring to determine whether a standard dose of DEX is sufficient or if a higher dose is necessary for successful sedation. The study targets children aged 12 months to 18 years, particularly those with conditions that may hinder cooperation during the procedure. By identifying the appropriate dosage of DEX, the study seeks to enhance the safety and effectiveness of procedural sedation in pediatric patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the success rate of brain MRIs in children, reducing the need for general anesthesia.
How similar studies have gone: While there is existing research on dexmedetomidine for sedation, this specific approach using EEG monitoring for dosage determination is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Indication of DEX sedation for brain NMRI at the CHR de Metz-Thionville * in a patient aged between 12 months and 5 years or * for a patient aged between 5 and 18 whose cooperation during the examination appears compromised (previous failure, autism spectrum disorders, etc.). * Membership of a social security scheme * Free and informed consent obtained from the patient's legal guardian(s). Exclusion Criteria: * Weight \< 10 kg * Patients with contraindications to the use of DEX * Hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or to any of the excipients listed in the section on "Hypersensitivity". * Advanced heart block (level 2 or 3), unless pacemaker implanted * Uncontrolled hypotension * Acute cerebrovascular pathologies * Patients with nasal obstruction * Parental refusal of DEX administration * Minors under guardianship * Minors under judicial sanction
Where it's running
-
CHR Metz-Thionville Hopital Femme-Mère Enfant
Metz, France Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anne-Charlotte CULLIER, MD — CHR Metz Thionville Hopital Femme Mère Enfant
- Study coordinator: Arpiné EL NAR, PhD
- Email: projet-recherche-clinique@chr-metz-thionville.fr
- Phone: 0033387557766
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.