Investigating brain activity during anesthesia induction with propofol

Simultaneous EEG-fMRI Study in Healthy Humans During Induction of Propofol Anesthesia to Investigate the Dynamics of Thalamocortical Functional Connectivity in the Alpha Frequency

Not applicable Interventional Technical University of Munich · NCT06179719

This study is trying to see how brain activity changes during anesthesia with propofol and how visual stimulation affects it, especially in older patients, to help improve understanding and treatment of cognitive issues after surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment35 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorTechnical University of Munich Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Munich, Bavaria and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06179719 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study explores the neural processes involved in generating intrinsic alpha oscillations during the induction of general anesthesia with propofol. Using simultaneous EEG and fMRI, the study examines how visual stimulation can influence alpha rhythms in the brain during both anesthesia and wakefulness. The primary goal is to understand the mechanisms behind alpha oscillations and their potential impact on conditions like post-operative delirium, particularly in elderly patients. By shedding light on these processes, the study aims to enhance diagnostic and treatment options for related cognitive disorders.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy individuals aged 18 to 35 who meet specific health criteria and can provide informed consent.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of neurological or psychiatric disorders, previous brain surgery, or those outside the specified age range will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of post-operative delirium, enhancing patient outcomes after surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using EEG-fMRI during anesthesia is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding brain activity, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female and male healthy individuals (ASA I: assessed according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification System a non-acute or chronic disease), non-pregnant, non-smokers, non-drug-users, and presenting no or minimal alcohol use.
* Age: 18 to 35 years
* Capacity to give consent
* Written consent after detailed information.

Exclusion criteria:

* Individuals who do not meet all inclusion criteria
* Previous brain surgery
* History of epileptic seizures
* History of psychiatric or neurological disease
* Physical status other than American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I, e.g., presence of severe internal or systemic disease
* Chronic intake of medication or drugs (Alcohol, Marihuana, Cocaine, Opioids, Benzodiazepine, etc.)
* Impaired hearing or presence of deafness
* Absence of fluency in the German language
* Known disposition to malignant hyperthermia
* Previous diagnosis of hepatic porphyria
* Body mass index greater than 30 kg/m2
* Gastrointestinal disorders with a disposition for gastroesophageal regurgitation
* Known or suspected difficult airway
* Known hypersensitivity to propofol or any propofol injectable emulsion components (i.e., eggs, eggs products, soybeans, or soy products)
* Atopy/severe allergies/asthma
* Cardiological abnormalities: torsades de pointes, prolonged QT interval, QT changes present since birth.
* Contraindications to MRI (e.g., pacemakers, artificial heart valves, cardioseal, aneurysm clips, implanted magnetic metal parts (screws, plates from surgery), cochlear implants, metal splitters/grenade splinters, acupuncture needle, insulin pump, piercings that cannot be removed, etc)
* Pregnancy
* Subjects with claustrophobia

Where this trial is running

Munich, Bavaria and 1 other locations

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Anesthesia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.