Predicting blockages in external ventricular drains for ICU patients

Identification of Patients at Risk of Undesired Obstruction in External Ventricular Drain: Development of a Score Based on the Extent of Intra-ventricular Hemorrhage. A Single-Center, Prospective Observational Study.

Observational Nantes University Hospital · NCT06466811

This study is trying to find out which ICU patients with external ventricular drains are at higher risk for blockages after bleeding in the brain, to help improve their care.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment640 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNantes University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Nantes, Loire-Atlantique)
Trial IDNCT06466811 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify high-risk patients for obstruction in external ventricular drains (EVD) following intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). It focuses on patients admitted to the intensive care unit who have had an EVD inserted within the last 12 hours. The study will analyze brain imaging data to determine the association between IVH and the risk of EVD obstruction, with the goal of improving monitoring and treatment strategies for affected patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old who are admitted to the ICU and have had their first EVD inserted within the last 12 hours.

Not a fit: Patients who are moribund, have intentionally occluded EVDs, or are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better management of patients with EVDs, reducing complications and improving outcomes in those with intraventricular hemorrhage.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific association between IVH and EVD obstruction remains unproven, similar studies in related fields have shown promise in improving patient outcomes through better monitoring.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria :

Patient older than 18 years old,

* admitted to the ICU,
* with first EVD inserted for less than 12 hours,
* and brain imaging (CT or MRI) available in the timespan "24 hours before to 24 hours after" the EVD insertion.

Exclusion Criteria :

* EVD intentionally occluded immediately after its insertion,
* purulent cerebrospinal fluid
* Pregnant or breast-feeding patient
* Moribund patient or patient with decision of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment within the 12 hours
* Patient with no health insurance
* Patient under guardianship

Where this trial is running

Nantes, Loire-Atlantique

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.
Conditions Intensive Care UnitIntraventricular HemorrhageExternal Ventricular DrainIntensive care unitExternal ventricular drainNeuromeningeal infectionObstructionIntraventricular hemorrhage
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.