Brain wave tech may curb Post-Surgery confusion in seniors
NCT ID NCT07567729
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether using brain wave (EEG) monitoring to guide anesthesia during surgery can reduce postoperative delirium—a common side effect in older adults that can lead to lasting memory problems. Researchers will train anesthesia providers to interpret EEG data and adjust anesthesia in real time. The study involves 225 participants and aims to see if this approach is feasible and reduces delirium after surgery.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- EEG-guided anesthesia protocol
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this approach could reduce the risk of postoperative delirium and its long-term cognitive effects in older surgical patients.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small pilot study focused on feasibility, not yet proven to prevent delirium. Results may not generalize to all hospitals or patient groups.
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Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 225 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Expected to start
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Jun 2026
An estimate. Start dates often move.
- Expected to finish
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Jan 2031
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: Part A Inclusion Criteria: * Signed and dated informed consent form prior to any study-specific procedures. * Willingness and ability to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study, including all scheduled assessments and follow-up visits. * Currently practicing anesthetic provider, defined as either: * Attending anesthesiologist, or * Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). * Limited prior formal training in EEG interpretation for anesthetic depth, as self-reported by the participant (see Exclusion Criteria for details). * Fluent in English, to ensure comprehension of study materials and assessments. * Able to access and utilize required technology (e.g., computer or tablet with internet access) for completion of digital modules and online assessments. * In good general health and capable of fulfilling clinical duties, as self-reported and confirmed by site investigator review. * Willingness to be randomized to any of the study arms and to participate in all assigned educational interventions and assessments. * Willingness to adhere to the protocol-specified anesthetic management strategy during the real-case assessments. Part B Inclusion Criteria: * Provides written, signed informed consent prior to the surgical procedure. * Is age 60 years or older. * Is scheduled to undergo an elective, non-cardiac, non-neurologic surgical procedure expected to last at least two hours. * Is planned to receive general anesthesia. * Has an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status of I, II, or III. * Has intact skin on the forehead suitable for the application of EEG electrodes. Exclusion Criteria: Part A Exclusion Criteria: * Fellowship training in neuroanesthesia or neurocritical care. * Participation in EEG-related research or formal EEG training within the past 12 months. * Inability to access or utilize required technology (e.g., computer or tablet with internet access) necessary for completion of digital modules and online assessments. * Any condition (physical, psychological, or cognitive) that, in the opinion of the site investigator, would preclude full participation in study activities or completion of the study protocol. * Known allergy or sensitivity to materials used in EEG electrodes (e.g., adhesives or gels), if applicable. * Non-practicing anesthetic providers (e.g., retired, not currently providing clinical care). Part B Exclusion Criteria: * Is unable to provide legally effective informed consent. * Is scheduled for emergency, cardiac, or neurologic surgery. * Has an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status of IV or greater. * Has a pre-existing diagnosis of dementia, significant cognitive impairment, or other major neurologic disease (e.g., epilepsy, Parkinson's disease). * Has a known allergy to the adhesives or gels used with EEG electrodes. * Has a condition, such as a craniofacial deformity or skin condition on the forehead, that would prevent proper placement or functioning of the EEG monitor. * Currently pregnant.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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