Comparison of iodinated contrast media injection protocols with reduced flow rates and volumes on image quality in diagnostic cerebral angiography for the evaluation of unruptured intracranial aneurysms: towards a standardization of practices (OPIAC)
This study, called OPIAC, is investigating how to improve brain scans (cerebral angiography) for people with unruptured brain bulges, called aneurysms. Doctors use a special dye to see these on scans. This research compares different ways of injecting this dye, looking at how much is used and how quickly it's injected. The main goal is to find out which injection method gives the clearest 2D and 3D pictures, making it easier for doctors to see the aneurysm. They also want to see if these new methods can reduce discomfort for patients, use less dye, save money, and be kinder to the environment, while still getting good quality images. Participants will be aged 18 or older.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called OPIAC, focuses on improving a type of brain scan called diagnostic cerebral angiography. This scan is used to look closely at unruptured intracranial aneurysms. An aneurysm is like a small bulge or balloon in a blood vessel, and if it's in the brain, it's called an intracranial aneurysm. These scans help doctors understand the aneurysm better without it having burst yet.
To make these blood vessels visible on the scan, doctors inject a special dye (called iodinated contrast media). This study is trying out different ways to give this dye. They are specifically looking at whether using less dye, or injecting it more slowly, can still produce high-quality images. The aim is to find the best way to get clear pictures so doctors can accurately assess the aneurysm, while also considering patient comfort, the amount of dye used, and even the cost and environmental impact.
Essentially, the research wants to find a 'sweet spot' – an injection method that gives excellent brain scans with potentially fewer risks or discomfort for the patient, and is also more efficient. By comparing several new techniques to the standard way of doing things, the study hopes to create a better, more standardised approach for these important diagnostic procedures.
Key takeaways
- This study is about improving brain scans for unruptured brain aneurysms.
- It tests different ways of injecting a special dye to get clearer pictures.
- The goal is better image quality, potentially less discomfort, and more efficient scans.
- You participate during your regular scan, no extra appointments.
- It aims to standardise practices for better patient care.
- Open to adults aged 18 and over.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults who are 18 years old or older. Both men and women can take part.
To be eligible, you would likely be someone who is already going to have a cerebral angiography scan for an unruptured brain aneurysm. Only your medical team can confirm if this study is right for you, based on your specific health situation.
There might be other health conditions or treatments that would mean you couldn't join, but these details would be discussed by the study team if you express interest.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you scheduled to have a brain scan called cerebral angiography for an unruptured aneurysm?
- Are you comfortable potentially being asked about your comfort and satisfaction during your procedure?
- Are you happy for information about your scan quality to be used anonymously for research?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you take part in this study, you won't need extra visits to the hospital. All the activities are part of the standard cerebral angiography procedure you would already be having for your unruptured brain aneurysm.
During the procedure, different methods of injecting the dye will be used. This is the main part of the study. After each injection and scan, a nurse or radiographer will ask you about any discomfort using a simple verbal scale. At the very end of your examination, you might be asked to fill out a short questionnaire about your overall satisfaction and if you experienced any side effects.
The total duration of your participation is just for the time you are having the scan itself. There are no additional follow-up appointments solely for the study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- —France
Common questions
What is an unruptured intracranial aneurysm?
It's a small bulge or balloon in a blood vessel in your brain that hasn't burst yet. Doctors often monitor or treat these to prevent future problems.
What is cerebral angiography?
It's a special type of X-ray picture of the blood vessels in your brain. A dye is injected to make the vessels visible, helping doctors see aneurysms clearly.
Will I get extra tests if I join this study?
No, you won't have any extra tests. The study uses different ways of doing the scan you're already scheduled for. You'll just be asked about your comfort and satisfaction.
Will it hurt more if I participate?
The study aims to potentially reduce discomfort. You'll be asked about your comfort levels, which helps the researchers understand the patient experience with different injection methods.
What is the study hoping to achieve?
The study hopes to find the best way to inject dye for these brain scans, aiming for clearer images with less dye, better patient comfort, and more efficient procedures.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.