Pilot Study of 3D Ultrasound Localization Microscopy to Detect Brain Injury After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Using an Experimental Device

What this Trial Is About

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a severe type of stroke that can cause early brain injury, vasospasm, and delayed cerebral ischemia. These complications are usually diagnosed using brain imaging techniques like CT scans, MRI, and arteriography, which require moving critically ill patients within the hospital, posing risks. This research aims to evaluate a new non-invasive bedside device using 3D enhanced ultrasonography to detect the main arteries in the brain's anterior circulation, potentially improving diagnosis without the need for transportation. Participants with aneurysmal SAH affecting the anterior circulation will undergo three bilateral transcranial enhanced ultrasonography scans using a device with microbubble contrast agent (Sonovue), performed at three key risk periods: days 0-2, 4-10, and 11-14. This pilot study will not alter standard care but will assess the quality of the imaging signal and compare findings with clinical outcomes. The study plans to include 15 patients at a single center. During the study, patients will receive the enhanced ultrasonography scans at bedside without moving to other hospital locations. Researchers will measure the presence and quality of the time-intensity curve from the contrast agent as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include comparing ultrasound data to clinical signs of brain injury and vasospasm, detecting principal arteries, and evaluating measurement consistency. The study will run until March 2025 and aims to assess feasibility and potential clinical benefits.

3D Contrast Enhanced Acoustic Perfusion Imaging in Adult After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage