RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Hippocampal Volume and Memory Functions in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

This study is about understanding memory problems in people who have experienced a type of brain bleed called an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Sometimes, people have memory difficulties after SAH even when other brain scans look normal. This research aims to find out if these memory issues are connected to changes in a tiny, vital part of the brain called the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory. We will use special brain scans (MRIs) and memory tests to explore this link shortly after patients begin neurological rehabilitation. The goal is to better understand these long-term memory effects and improve support for patients.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

BDH-Klinik Hessisch Oldendorf

Enrolment target

Start

15 Jun 2020

Estimated completion

15 Dec 2026

Neurologic Disorder Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, Aneurysmal

What is this study about?

After suffering a brain bleed known as an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), some people can experience lasting difficulties, especially with their memory. Even when standard brain scans appear normal, these memory problems can significantly affect daily life, making it harder to work or enjoy social activities.

This study is trying to understand why these memory issues happen. We are particularly interested in a small but very important brain area called the hippocampus, which plays a key role in forming new memories. Previous research has hinted that memory problems after SAH might be linked to changes in the size of the hippocampus. This study will look more closely at this specific connection.

We will be studying patients soon after their brain bleed, while they are in neurological rehabilitation. By combining detailed brain scans (MRI) with various memory and attention tests, we hope to see if there's a link between the size of the hippocampus and the memory difficulties people experience. This research is important because a better understanding of why these memory problems occur could help doctors and therapists provide more targeted support and improve recovery for patients after an SAH.

Key takeaways

Aims to understand memory problems after a brain bleed.
Will use MRI brain scans and memory tests.
Focuses on the hippocampus, a brain area key for memory.
Participation involves assessments during early rehabilitation.
Findings could help improve future patient care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 to 70 who have had a specific type of brain bleed (called an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage) and are now receiving neurological rehabilitation. You would need to be at least eight weeks past your brain bleed and in a stable condition.

Unfortunately, we can't include everyone. You wouldn't be able to join if you are pregnant, have other existing brain damage or certain mental health conditions like dementia or severe depression. Also, if you have certain medical conditions that make an MRI scan unsafe, such as some metal implants, or if you have severe claustrophobia, you wouldn't be able to take part.

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.

Are you between 18 and 70 years old?
Have you had an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (a specific type of brain bleed)?
Are you at least eight weeks past your brain bleed and currently in neurological rehabilitation?
Do you feel comfortable having an MRI scan?
Are you not pregnant?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, it will involve a few key steps. First, within the first week of signing up, you will have a special brain scan called an MRI. This scan will show detailed pictures of your brain, particularly focusing on the hippocampus. This MRI does not use any injections or contrast dyes. After your MRI, your research team will do some tests to check your memory and attention skills. These tests will help us understand how your memory is working. The whole process, including the MRI and tests, will happen in your first week after joining the study during your rehabilitation stay. There are no medications involved in this study.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in research like this helps us learn more about conditions and improve care for future patients. While there isn't a direct personal benefit to you from participating, your involvement could help improve understanding of memory problems after a brain bleed. The main risk is undergoing an MRI scan, which is generally safe but can cause discomfort for those with claustrophobia or who are sensitive to loud noises. There are no known risks from the memory tests. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

BDH-Clinic Hessisch Oldendorf
Verified postcode
Hessisch Oldendorf, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage?

It's a type of bleeding on the surface of the brain, usually caused by a burst blood vessel.

What is the hippocampus?

It's a small but important part of your brain that plays a key role in forming new memories.

Will I get paid for taking part?

The study information doesn't mention any payment for participation.

How long will I be in the study?

Your participation involves assessments performed within your first week of joining while in rehabilitation.

Will my doctors know I'm in the study?

Yes, your rehabilitation team will be aware of your involvement in the study.

How to find out more

Melanie Boltzmann, PhD

m.boltzmann@bdh-klinik-hessisch.oldendorf 0049 5152 781 256 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.