Using Dexmedetomidine to Reduce Delirium After Awake Brain Surgery

Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Postoperative Delirium in Patients Undergoing Awake Craniotomies: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Beijing Tiantan Hospital · NCT05195034

This study is testing if a medication called dexmedetomidine can help prevent confusion after brain surgery in patients who are awake during the procedure.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment210 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorBeijing Tiantan Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Beijing, Beijing Municipality)
Trial IDNCT05195034 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effect of dexmedetomidine on the incidence of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing awake craniotomies. Given that postoperative delirium is a common complication in this high-risk population, the study aims to determine if dexmedetomidine can effectively reduce its occurrence. Patients will receive either dexmedetomidine or a saline solution during their procedure, and their postoperative cognitive function will be monitored. The findings could provide insights into better management strategies for patients undergoing brain surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled for selective awake craniotomies.

Not a fit: Patients with preoperative cognitive impairment, severe bradycardia, or significant hepatic or renal dysfunction may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing awake craniotomies, improving recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that dexmedetomidine may reduce delirium in non-cardiac surgery, but its specific effects on awake craniotomies remain largely untested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients undergoing selective awake craniotomies.
* Age ≥18 years.
* Obtain written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* 1.Preoperative moderate and severe cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA\< 18).
* 2.Preoperative psychotropic medication within one year.
* 3.BMI≤18 or ≥30 Kg/ m2
* 4.Pregnant or lactating women.
* 5.History of traumatic brain injury or neurosurgery.
* 6.Severe bradycardia (heart rate less than 40 beats per minute), sick sinus syndrome or second-to-third degree atrioventricular block.
* 7.Severe hepatic or renal dysfunction.

Where this trial is running

Beijing, Beijing Municipality

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 DexmedetomidineDeliriumAwake Craniotomy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.