Brain wave monitor may sharpen sedation care for head injury patients

NCT ID NCT03575169

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Aberdeen Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This observational study tests whether a bispectral index (BIS) monitor, which tracks brain activity, can reliably measure how deeply sedated patients with traumatic brain injury are in the intensive care unit. Researchers will compare BIS readings with other measures like pressure inside the skull and use of sedative drugs over 24 hours. The goal is to see if this device could help doctors fine-tune sedation for these critically ill patients.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: BIS monitor (a device that measures brain activity to assess sedation depth)
What this could lead to: If BIS monitoring proves reliable, it could help ICU teams tailor sedation more precisely for traumatic brain injury patients, potentially improving outcomes.
What could go wrong: This is a small observational study, so results may not apply broadly. BIS readings can be affected by brain injury itself, and the device may not accurately reflect sedation depth in this population.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Brain Injuries, Traumatic traumatic brain injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Intensive Care Unit, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

Aberdeen, AB25 2ZN, United Kingdom
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

Leeds, United Kingdom
NHS Lothian

Edinburgh, United Kingdom
NHS Tayside

Dundee, United Kingdom

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