NCT06322602 · Mayo Clinic
Ommaya Reservoir Placement at the Time of Biopsy for Longitudinal Biomarker Collection in Patients With Brain Tumors
What this study is about
This observational trial evaluates the use of Ommaya reservoir placed during a biopsy to collect biomarkers longitudinally in patients with brain tumor. A biomarker is a measurable indicator of the severity or presence of the disease state. An Ommaya reservoir is a small device that's implanted under the scalp.
View original scientific description
This observational trial evaluates the use of Ommaya reservoir placed during a biopsy to collect biomarkers longitudinally in patients with brain tumor. A biomarker is a measurable indicator of the severity or presence of the disease state. An Ommaya reservoir is a small device that's implanted under the scalp. It allows the doctor to take samples of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the future without doing a spinal tap. The identification of biomarkers in CSF is rapidly emerging as a promising minimally invasive approach for monitoring tumor growth and response to therapy. In the future, these biomarkers may be used to help determine what treatments could be most effective and how well a tumor has responded to prior therapy. Currently, limited long-term access to CSF has made it difficult for studies to learn if collecting CSF at different points in the treatment process is useful. Having an Ommaya reservoir placed during a biopsy may allow for longitudinal biomarker collection in patients with brain tumor.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Clinical and radiographic evidence suggesting a diagnosis of a brain tumor
- Planned biopsy for suspected or previously diagnosed brain tumor as part of routine clinical care at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minnesota \[MN\])
- Willingness of the patient to provide informed consent
- Patient is willing to have their Ommaya sampled on at least 2 future occasions
- Patients is willing to have CSF banked through the neuro-oncology biorepository (requires a separate signature)
Exclusion criteria
- Adults lacking capacity to consent
- Vulnerable populations including pregnant women, prisoners, and individuals \< 18 years old
- Patients who are not appropriate candidates for biopsy due to current or past medical history or uncontrolled current illness
- Prior history of any wound infection
- Any patient who the surgeon feels is not an optimal candidate for Ommaya reservoir placement. Such reasons may include, but will not be limited to, surgical anatomy, clinical evidence of immunosuppression, and/or elevated risk of wound infection due to diabetes, smoking history, morbid obesity, or any other concerns
Where
- Rochester, Minnesota
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations