NCT07613918 · University of Wisconsin, Madison
Brain Blood Flow and Cerebral Autoregulation Monitoring in Critically Ill Children
What this study is about
This study uses a non-invasive (external) ultrasound test called Transcranial Doppler (TCD) to measure how blood flows through the major arteries of the brain of children receiving care in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). TCD is already used for clinical reasons in many children, but it is not part of routine monitoring for every critically ill child.
View original scientific description
This study uses a non-invasive (external) ultrasound test called Transcranial Doppler (TCD) to measure how blood flows through the major arteries of the brain of children receiving care in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). TCD is already used for clinical reasons in many children, but it is not part of routine monitoring for every critically ill child. By using TCD, the investigators hope to better understand how brain blood flow changes during illness. They will also track children's functional status from before their illness to the time of PICU discharge to explore how brain blood flow patterns relate to neurological outcomes.125 participants will be enrolled and will be on study while in the PICU, estimated to be 3-14 days.
Interventions
DEVICE
Transcranial Doppler
TCD measurements synchronized to arterial blood pressure and ventilatory data, performed once daily for up to 5 days during PICU admission plus one additional pre-extubation scan if applicable, approximately 30 minutes each. Bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) insonation performed at each session.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Functional Status Scale (FSS) from baseline to PICU discharge
Time frame: Baseline FSS reflects pre-morbid functional status as reported by parents/guardians at enrollment; follow-up FSS assessed at PICU discharge (estimated 3-14 days)
To assess the relationship between cerebral autoregulation and neurological outcomes in critically ill pediatric patients, FSS will be measured. FSS has 6 domains: mental status, sensory, communication, motor function, feeding, and respiratory. FSS is scored from 6 to 30, higher scores are indicative of more severe dysfunction.
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
- Has at least one Parent or Legal Guardian who is willing and able to provide informed consent in English
- Mechanically ventilated (Endotracheal tube)
- Indwelling arterial catheter
- Current patient in the American Family Children's Hospital PICU.
- 1 day to 17.5 years of age
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects with a known or obvious anatomic barrier preventing safe application of the transcranial Doppler probe (e.g., cranial dressings, cranial fixation hardware, ventricular access devices positioned over insonation sites, or bilateral craniectomies)
- Patient with known chronic hypertension
- Admission FSS score \> 16
- Tracheostomized patient
- The designated sub-investigator (Dr. Talal Al Hendawi) and PI (Dr. Neil Munjal) are unavailable to perform the Transcranial Doppler scan at the time of eligibility. All study scans are performed by either Dr. Al Hendawi or Dr.Munjal to ensure standardization and data integrity. Therefore, if they are unavailable (e.g., due to clinical service, leave, or other scheduling constraints), the patient will not be enrolled in the study.
- Not suitable for study participation due to other reasons at the discretion of the investigators
Where
- Madison, Wisconsin
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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 Aug 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations