Mapping brain activity in epilepsy patients using optical imaging
Intraoperative Optical Mapping of Human Epileptiform and Functional Cortex
This study is testing a new way to use light to map brain activity in epilepsy patients during surgery to make the procedure safer and more effective.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Weill Medical College of Cornell University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT00195052 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to develop a technique for intraoperative identification of functional and epileptiform cortex in epilepsy patients through intrinsic signal imaging. The researchers believe that this optical monitoring method will provide a more sensitive and efficient way to map neuronal activity compared to traditional electrical methods. By capturing real-time data over large cortical areas, the study seeks to enhance the safety and efficacy of neurosurgical procedures for epilepsy. The findings will also contribute to a better understanding of human cortical physiology related to epilepsy.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with medically intractable epilepsy who are scheduled for neurosurgical operations requiring cortical mapping.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing neurosurgical operations requiring cortical mapping will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technique could significantly improve surgical outcomes for epilepsy patients by providing more accurate mapping of seizure activity.
How similar studies have performed: While traditional electrophysiological methods are well-established, this optical imaging approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in similar studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Medically intractable epilepsy * Subjects undergoing neurosurgical operations requiring cortical mapping Exclusion Criteria: * Subjects NOT undergoing neurosurgical operations requiring cortical mapping.
Where this trial is running
New York, New York
- Weill Cornell Medical College/New York Presbyterian Hospital — New York, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Theodore H Schwartz, MD — Weill Cornell Medical College/New York Presbyterian Hospital
- Study coordinator: Theodore H Schwartz, MD
- Email: schwarh@med.cornell.edu
- Phone: 212-746-5620
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.