Trajectory of Neuroinflammatory Markers in Cerebrospinal Fluid Prior to and After Thoracic Aortic Surgery

Launched by RADBOUD UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · Aug 19, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how certain proteins in the fluid around the brain and spinal cord change before and after surgery for a thoracic aortic aneurysm. The goal is to understand if these changes are linked to problems like confusion and memory issues that some patients experience after surgery. Patients participating in this study will have a small tube placed in their lower back the day before surgery to help monitor this fluid, and they will have tests done on both the fluid and their blood.

To be eligible for this study, participants need to be at least 18 years old and scheduled for thoracic aortic surgery that includes the external lumbar drain. However, those with recent serious brain conditions, infections, or certain neurological issues won't be able to participate. If you join the study, you can expect to have some extra tests related to your surgery, but it will mainly follow your regular care. This research aims to help doctors better understand and possibly prevent confusion and cognitive problems after surgery in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Competent patients ≥ 18 years
• • Patients who will undergo thoracic aortic surgery and will therefore receive an external lumbar drain as a standard of care procedure.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients with meningitis/encephalitis/brain abscess within the last 6 months
• • Patients with other neurological conditions: brain injury (acute stroke, brain trauma or cerebral haemorrhage) within the last 3 months, known brain tumours, neurodegenerative disease or known pre-existing cognitive impairment (to a degree that would be compatible with mild cognitive impairment or more).
• • Brain or spinal surgery within the last 3 months
• • Active infection \<2 weeks before surgery
• • Patients who object against storage of their body material for scientific reasons