Assessment of Eloquent Function in Brain Tumor Patients

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA · Feb 14, 2012

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how different imaging techniques can help locate important areas of the brain in patients with brain tumors. The researchers want to learn how well methods like functional MRI (fMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and magnetoencephalography (MEG) can predict where these crucial brain functions are located before surgery. They will also look at how the brain might adapt or reorganize itself after the tumor is removed by comparing tests done before and after the operation.

To be eligible for this study, patients must be at least 19 years old and have a brain tumor that is situated in or near areas of the brain responsible for important functions, and that can be safely removed. Patients should be able to participate in testing without any health issues that would make it unsafe. Those who are pregnant, have certain medical conditions, or cannot understand the study will not be included. Participants can expect to undergo various non-invasive and possibly invasive tests, and their progress will be closely monitored throughout the study. This research aims to improve how we understand and treat brain tumors while protecting vital brain functions.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 19 years and older
• • Brain tumor in or near eloquent brain regions that is appropriate for attempted resection
• • Appropriate body habitus and mental status/capacity to participate with non-invasive or invasive mapping
• • Benign or malignant intra-axial brain tumor
• • Primary or metastatic intra-axial brain tumor
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Any contraindication to MRI (i.e. implanted devices)
• • Inappropriate body habitus or mental status/capacity to participate with non-invasive or invasive mapping in a safe and reliable manner
• • Declining to participate
• • Lacks capacity to understand the study or consent for themselves
• • Neurologic status which precludes testing (poor function- not testable)
• • Positive pregnancy test
• • End stage renal disease or severe renal dysfunction