Noninvasive ultrasound technique for assessing intracranial pressure

Subharmonic Aided Pressure Estimation (SHAPE) for Intracranial Pressure (ICP) Assessment

PHASE2 · Thomas Jefferson University · NCT06571786

This study is testing a new ultrasound method to see if it can safely measure brain pressure without needing invasive procedures for people undergoing lumbar punctures.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThomas Jefferson University (other)
Locations2 sites (Rochester, Minnesota and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06571786 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The SHAPE technique utilizes a noninvasive ultrasound-based imaging method to estimate ambient pressure by analyzing subharmonic emissions from ultrasound contrast agents. This approach involves the use of encapsulated microbubbles that respond to high acoustic pressures, allowing for the measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP) during lumbar puncture procedures. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of this technique in providing accurate pressure assessments without the need for invasive procedures. Participants will receive perflutren lipid microspheres as part of the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 scheduled for a lumbar puncture to assess ICP pressures.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, nursing, medically unstable, or allergic to components of the contrast agent will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this technique could provide a safer and more accurate method for assessing intracranial pressure in patients.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies using ultrasound techniques for pressure estimation have shown promise, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Scheduled for lumbar puncture to assess ICP pressures
* Age over 18.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant or nursing
* Medically unstable
* Allergy to any components of Definity.
* Unable to provide written informed consent

Where this trial is running

Rochester, Minnesota and 1 other locations

Study contacts

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Lumbar Puncture

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.