NCT07573150 · NeurOptics Inc
Pupillometry in Identifying Risk of Postoperative Opioid-induced Respiratory Depression in Children Undergoing Tonsillectomy
What this study is about
This study will evaluate whether quantitative pupillometry measurements can be used to identify children at risk for postoperative opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) following tonsillectomy.
View original scientific description
This study will evaluate whether quantitative pupillometry measurements can be used to identify children at risk for postoperative opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) following tonsillectomy. Opioid-induced respiratory depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication that can occur after surgery, and current monitoring approaches are limited in their ability to predict which patients are at highest risk. In this prospective observational cohort study, approximately 300 pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy will undergo non-invasive pupillometry measurements at defined perioperative time points, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods. Pupillometry measurements will be collected using a commercially available, FDA-regulated infrared pupillometer. These measurements will include pupil size, constriction and dilation velocities, and latency in response to light stimulation. Pupillometry data will be collected for research purposes only and will not be used to guide clinical care or treatment decisions. Standard clinical care will not be altered as part of this study. Clinical outcomes, including the occurrence of postoperative opioid-induced respiratory depression, opioid use, sedation levels, pain scores, and other postoperative events, will be recorded from the medical record. The goal of this study is to evaluate the relationship between pupillary response patterns and the occurrence of postoperative respiratory depression, and to support the development of predictive models that may improve early identification of patients at risk for opioid-related adverse events.
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
- Age 3 to less than 18 years
- Scheduled to undergo tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy
- Planned postoperative recovery in a monitored clinical setting (e.g., post-anesthesia care unit)
- Ability to obtain informed consent from parent or legal guardian and assent from the participant when developmentally appropriate
Exclusion criteria
- Known neurologic or ophthalmologic conditions that may affect pupillary function
- Use of medications known to significantly alter pupillary response outside of standard perioperative care
- Inability to obtain adequate pupillometry measurements (e.g., due to eye injury or inability to safely perform measurement)
- Patients not receiving opioids as part of perioperative care
- Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, would interfere with study participation or data interpretation
Where
- San Francisco, California
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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 May 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations