Non-Invasive Detection and Preservation of Neurocognitive Signals in the Peri-Death Period Using … (NCT07477028) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Non-Invasive Detection and Preservation of Neurocognitive Signals in the Peri-Death Period Using Brain-Computer Interface and Artificial Intelligence
20 participantsStarted 2026-09-01
Plain-language summary
Background: Recent electroencephalography (EEG) data indicate that the transition from clinical death to cellular death is marked by highly organized neurophysiological events, including significant surges in gamma-band power, cross-frequency coupling, and distinct spreading depolarization waves. This prospective, observational feasibility study utilizes rapid-deployment, high-density, noninvasive BCI hardware paired with proprietary AI analytics to detect, classify, and securely archive these terminal neurocognitive signals.
Objectives: (1) Quantify transient gamma-band activity and cross-frequency connectivity post-clinical death; (2) Validate the efficacy of machine learning models for real-time signal classification in high-noise clinical environments; (3) Establish a highly secure, encrypted bio-informational archive of peri-life EEG data.
Design: Prospective, open-label, multicenter, observational cohort (n\>20).
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. Adults ≥18 years with terminal illness or severe acute trauma
. Do-not-resuscitate (DNR/DNI) order in place
. Surrogate decision-maker available and willing to provide informed consent
. Expected survival ≤7 days (physician estimate)
Exclusion criteria
. Brain death already declared \> 24 hours prior to enrollment
. Contraindication to EEG/BCI headset placement (e.g., severe scalp injury)
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1This trial is listed as 'not yet recruiting' — do you know when it's expected to open, and would it even be realistic to consider enrolling given my current condition and how much time we may have?
2The study is measuring brain signals after clinical death but before brain death using EEG and AI — what would that actually involve for me or my family in terms of consent, timing, and any equipment placed on me near the end of life?
3Since this is a Phase NA observational study focused on detecting signals rather than treating anything, there's no potential treatment benefit for me — is that right, and how does that change how you'd weigh whether this is worth discussing further?
4Given that this study involves end-of-life monitoring, what are the practical and emotional considerations my family should think about before agreeing to something like this during such a vulnerable time?
5Are there any standard palliative or end-of-life care options I should be prioritizing right now that might be a better use of our energy before considering participation in a study that isn't even open yet?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Detection of Neurocognitive Signals After Clinical Death Prior to Brain Death