NCT06966713 · University of Chicago
Predict Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
What this study is about
Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with a 20-30% mortality rate and significant disability among most survivors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that 2% of the U.S. population lives with disabilities directly attributable to TBI, with annual costs exceeding $76.5 billion.
View original scientific description
Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with a 20-30% mortality rate and significant disability among most survivors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that 2% of the U.S. population lives with disabilities directly attributable to TBI, with annual costs exceeding $76.5 billion. Current treatments are largely ineffective because they are instituted after irreversible damage has already occurred. By the time intracranial pressure (ICP) increases or brain tissue oxygen tension (PbtO2) decreases to harmful levels, it is often too late to reverse or repair the damage. A computerized method has been developed that can predict these injurious events ahead of time, allowing clinicians to intervene before further damage occurs. The goal of this proposal is to test these predictions in real time. The first phase of the project (Year 1) involves setting up the informatics infrastructure, with no patient interaction. In the second phase (Year 2), subjects, through surrogate decision-makers, will be enrolled in an observational study where data on intracranial pressure and brain tissue oxygen tension will be collected, and the prediction algorithm will be tested for accuracy. Clinical management will follow standard care protocols, and no additional interventions will be performed. Approximately 120 individuals will participate in this study at the University of Chicago and Ben Taub General Hospital in Houston. Data collected will include both the electronic medical record and data from bedside intensive care unit monitors. The electronic medical record includes demographic information, injury characteristics, laboratory values, and imaging data, while the intensive care unit monitor provides real-time vital signs such as intracranial pressure, brain tissue oxygen tension, and mean arterial pressure. These data will be securely stored in a research computer database. Efforts will be made to contact subjects or their caretakers at 6 months to follow up on recovery. This research aims to improve patient outcomes by providing predictions of further brain injury, with the potential for future interventions to prevent permanent brain damage.
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
- Patients age \>18 years old
- Severe TBI, determined by initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score after resuscitation and without the influence of paralytics or sedation, (GCS score ≤8, motor score ≤5, not following commands)
- The clinical need for ICP and/or PbtO2 monitoring according to the BTF guidelines
- Be able to enroll during the course of their stay in the ICU
Exclusion criteria
- Neurological exam suggesting imminent brain death (bilateral, fixed and dilated pupils) or questionable accuracy of the neurologic exam (high blood alcohol level and/or seizure activity \< 30 minutes of exam)
- Evidence of pregnancy (urine or blood test)
- Placement of intracranial monitoring is contraindicated (e.g., uncorrected coagulopathy, depressed skull fracture)
- Inability to obtain informed consent from legal authorized representative (LAR) prior to research procedures
- Participation in another interventional clinical trial (coenrollment with the BOOST3 (CIRB19-0228) trial is allowed\*)
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
- Houston, Texas
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 Nov 10, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations