Novel Diagnostic Methods to Identify External Ventricular Drain Associated Infections

Launched by KAROLINSKA UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL · Jun 6, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying new ways to quickly identify infections that can occur when patients have an external ventricular drain, which is a tube used to help manage pressure in the brain. Currently, doctors often rely on indirect signs to decide if a patient has an infection and may start antibiotic treatment even when it isn't necessary. This trial will look at three new methods that could directly detect bacteria in the fluid around the brain, which may help doctors make better decisions about when to use antibiotics for patients in critical care.

To participate in this study, patients must be between the ages of 65 and 74 and be treated with an external ventricular drain while admitted to the neurocritical care unit at Karolinska University Hospital in Sweden. If eligible, participants can expect to undergo tests using these new diagnostic methods, and their results will be compared to the standard culture tests currently used. This research aims to improve how infections are diagnosed and treated, potentially leading to better care for patients with serious conditions.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Treated with an external ventricular drain.
• • 2. Admitted to the neurocritical and critical care unit at Karolinska University Hospital in Solna, Sweden.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Does not fulfill age requirements.