Using focused ultrasound to measure brain tumors
Feasibility of Transcranial Focused Ultrasound to Measure Brain Tumor
This study is testing whether a new ultrasound technique can help doctors see and treat brain tumors more accurately during surgery compared to regular imaging methods like MRI.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT05755399 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study explores the feasibility of using transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) for non-invasive imaging of brain tumors during cranial neurosurgery. The approach aims to provide high-resolution imaging while offering potential treatment options through neuromodulation and blood-brain barrier modulation. By integrating tFUS with neuronavigation and post-contrast imaging, the study seeks to enhance the precision of tumor targeting and treatment. The goal is to assess the effectiveness of this method compared to traditional imaging techniques like MRI.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults scheduled for brain surgery who can provide informed consent and are undergoing general anesthesia.
Not a fit: Patients who are planned for awake craniotomy or have unhealed scalp wounds or infections may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve the accuracy of brain tumor imaging and treatment, leading to better surgical outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of focused ultrasound in brain imaging is emerging, this specific application is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Able to undergo informed consent * Scheduled and present for brain surgery * General Anesthesia planned * Neuronavigation used for surgery * Thin cut post-contrast imaging available for coregistration * At least 18 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * Awake craniotomy planned * Unhealed wounds or infection of scalp * Diseases and conditions that would increase the morbidity and mortality of craniotomy and tumor resection (e.g. cardiopulmonary issues) in the opinion of the PI. * Pregnancy (also generally required for surgery)
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David Darrow, MD — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: David Darrow, MD
- Email: darro015@umn.edu
- Phone: 612-624-6666
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.