The Use of Continuous Electroencephalographic (EEG) Monitoring for Cases of Refractory Status Epilepticus: Does it Affect the Final Patient Outcome

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the use of continuous electroencephalogram (cEEG) monitoring as a diagnostic tool in intensive care units (ICU) for patients with refractory status epilepticus (RSE). This randomized feasibility study aims to determine whether cEEG can reduce hospital stay length, mortality, and complications compared to standard medical care. The study also evaluates quality of life at 0, 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge and collects data to plan a larger future trial. Participants are randomly assigned to either a control group receiving sequential portable EEGs based on clinical need or a treatment group undergoing continuous EEG monitoring starting within 12 hours of RSE diagnosis. In the treatment group, cEEG continues until 24 hours after seizure activity stops, with daily reactivity testing and frequent review by neurophysiologists. Both groups receive care from the same medical team following standard guidelines. Throughout the study, researchers collect detailed clinical data including demographics, seizure history, seizure types, treatments used, and ICU and hospital discharge dates. They track complications, mortality, seizure control time, and quality of life using questionnaires at multiple time points. Data on hospital costs and the time required for EEG assessments are also gathered. The primary outcome is ICU stay length, with secondary outcomes including health status and hospital charges, monitored up to three years after recruitment.

EEG Monitoring for Refractory Status Epilepticus