OPM MEG in Pre-surgical Mapping for Patients With Epilepsy
This study looks at a new way to scan the brain, called OPM-MEG, for children aged 6-15 who have epilepsy that can't be controlled by medicine. These scans help doctors plan surgery to stop seizures by showing where in the brain the epilepsy activity is coming from. The traditional MEG scan involves a rigid helmet, which can be uncomfortable and too big for children. The new OPM-MEG uses a soft, hat-like sensor that allows movement and can be sized for children, potentially giving better results. Researchers will compare data from 20 children using both methods to see if the new OPM-MEG is just as good, or better, at pinpointing the problem areas, while also being more comfortable for patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When children have epilepsy that medicines can't control, surgery might be an option to help stop the seizures. Before surgery, doctors need to know exactly where in the brain the seizures are starting. One special scan that helps with this is called Magnetoencephalography, or MEG. It works by measuring the tiny electrical signals in the brain to create a map of activity.
Traditionally, MEG scans require a patient to sit very still with their head inside a large, rigid helmet. This can be difficult and uncomfortable, especially for children, and the helmets are often too big for younger patients. This means doctors sometimes can't get good information from these scans for children. But now there's a new type of MEG technology called OPM-MEG. This new system uses small, lightweight sensors placed in a soft, hat-like cap. This cap can be made to fit any child's head, and they can move around more comfortably during the scan.
This study aims to see if this new, more comfortable OPM-MEG system gives doctors the same helpful information as the traditional MEG, or even better. Researchers will ask 20 children, who are already having a traditional MEG scan at Aston University, to also have an OPM-MEG scan. By comparing the results from both types of scans, the study will determine if the new technology can accurately pinpoint where the epilepsy activity is happening, making it easier for surgeons to plan the best treatment.
Key takeaways
- This study compares a new, more comfortable brain scan (OPM-MEG) for children with epilepsy.
- The new OPM-MEG uses a soft, hat-like sensor instead of a rigid helmet.
- It aims to see if OPM-MEG can help doctors plan epilepsy surgery as well as, or better than, the old method.
- Participation involves an extra scan during an already planned hospital visit.
- The study focuses on children aged 6-15 who are having routine epilepsy assessments for surgery.
- It's a low-risk study with the potential to improve future care for children with epilepsy.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for children who are already being considered for epilepsy surgery. You or your child might be able to take part if you are between 6 and 15 years old and have been sent to Aston University for a special brain scan (MEG) from Birmingham Children's Hospital's epilepsy team.
It's important that the child can agree to take part in the study, and that a parent or guardian can give their permission. Also, the child, parent, or guardian should be able to speak and understand English so they can understand what the study involves.
However, if the child or their parent/guardian doesn't want to take part, either on the day or later on, then they won't be included in the study. Your decision will always be respected.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is the person being considered for epilepsy surgery?
- Are they between 6 and 15 years old?
- Are they being referred for a MEG scan at Aston University from Birmingham Children's Hospital?
- Can the child, parent, or guardian understand and speak English?
- Is the child able to agree to take part, and can a parent/guardian give permission?
What does participation involve?
If you or your child decides to take part, it's quite straightforward. You will already be having a routine MEG scan at Aston University as part of planning for epilepsy surgery. If you join the study, you'll simply be asked to have an additional OPM-MEG scan at the same location. This will happen during the same visit or at a closely scheduled time. There aren't any extra medications involved, and no follow-up visits specifically for the study itself, beyond your usual medical care. The whole process for the study (the extra scan) would be completed during or around your already planned hospital visit.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Aston UniversityVerified postcodeBirmingham, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is epilepsy surgery?
Epilepsy surgery is an operation to remove or change a very small part of the brain where seizures are thought to start, with the aim of stopping or reducing seizures.
What is a MEG scan for?
MEG stands for Magnetoencephalography, and it's a special brain scan that helps doctors find out exactly where in the brain seizures are coming from, so they can plan the best surgery.
Why is a 'new' kind of MEG scan needed?
The traditional MEG scan can be uncomfortable for children because of its rigid helmet. The new OPM-MEG uses a soft, hat-like sensor that is more comfortable and can be properly sized for children, potentially giving clearer results.
Will my child get a benefit from taking part?
While your child won't directly benefit from this extra research scan, taking part helps scientists understand if the new OPM-MEG system works well, which could help many other children with epilepsy in the future.
What will happen during the OPM-MEG scan?
Your child will wear a soft, hat-like cap with small sensors in it. They will be able to move more comfortably than with the traditional MEG scan, and the process is safe and doesn't use radiation.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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