Using laser imaging to monitor blood flow in the brain during surgery
Intraoperative Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging of Cerebral Blood Flow
This study is testing a new laser imaging technique to see if it can help doctors monitor blood flow in the brain during surgery for patients with conditions like aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Texas at Austin Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Austin, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT04865718 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research evaluates the effectiveness of laser speckle contrast imaging to visualize cerebral blood flow in real time during neurosurgery. The approach aims to enhance the understanding of vascular occlusion events and potential complications, allowing for timely interventions to reduce stroke risk. Unlike the current standard method, indocyanine green angiography, which requires dye injections and offers only intermittent views, this technique provides continuous monitoring without the need for dyes. The study focuses on patients undergoing procedures for conditions such as aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older undergoing neurosurgery with a craniotomy size of at least 2 cm.
Not a fit: Patients unable to legally consent or those with impaired cognitive function may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this method could significantly improve surgical outcomes by enabling real-time monitoring of cerebral blood flow.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of laser speckle contrast imaging is a novel approach, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in other surgical contexts.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults (18 years or older). * Size of craniotomy at least 2 cm. * Possibility of intraoperative ICGA. * Able to render written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients unable to legally consent. * Patients with impaired cognitive function.
Where this trial is running
Austin, Texas
- Dell Seton Medical Center — Austin, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Andrew Dunn, PhD
- Email: adunn@utexas.edu
- Phone: 512-232-2808
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.