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Observational Study on Neuroprognostication After Cardiac Arrest

This study, called SPARE, is looking at how doctors predict recovery for people who are unconscious after a cardiac arrest (when the heart suddenly stops beating). Currently, it's hard to accurately predict who will recover well. This study aims to improve these predictions by using a systematic approach that combines different types of information, such as clinical exams, brain activity tests (like EEG), and imaging. Researchers hope that by using these methods in a standardized way, they can create a better prediction model. This could help reduce bias in how outcomes are predicted, especially in the US where early withdrawal of life support (WLST) can influence results. The study is open to adults aged 18 to 89 who were initially unconscious after cardiac arrest and then had their circulation return.

Study design
This is an observational study, meaning researchers will collect information without giving any specific interventions. It plans to include 600 participants.
What's involved
Not specified in the trial record.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Participants' recovery will be measured at 14 days, 3 months, 6 months, and annually for up to 5 years after their cardiac arrest.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT03261089

Neuroprognostication Bias: A Collaboration to Reduce the Impact of Self-fulfilling Prophecy in Cardiac ARrEst

Recruiting
Not specifiedAges 18–89Observational
Boston Medical Center
~600 participants
Updated 2025-12-24 on ClinicalTrials.gov

At a glance

Recruiting sites
8 of 8 listed sites are recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
modified Rankin Score (mRS)
Measured over 14 days, 3 months post-arrest, 6 months, and annually up to 5 years afterwards

Conditions

Cardiac Arrest

Explore related trials

Cardiac Arrest

Where it's being run

8 sites across 6 states
Brazil3
California1
Connecticut1
Florida1
Massachusetts1
Pennsylvania1

Study leadership

  • David M Greer, MD MA · PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR · Boston Medical Center, Neurology
  • Gisele Sampaio-Silva, MD · PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR · Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Neurology

Who to contact

David M Greer, MD MA
[email protected]
(617) 638-5102
Email the study team

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Eligibility criteria

Inclusion

Initially unconscious following cardiac arrest from any non-perfusing rhythm (i.e., ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, pulseless electrical activity, asystole)
Sustained return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) as defined by maintained spontaneous circulation for at least 20 minutes after cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

What this trial measures

  • modified Rankin Score (mRS)14 days, 3 months post-arrest, 6 months, and annually up to 5 years afterwards

    A 7-point scale that measures the level of disability or impairment. mRS 0-3 is considered a good outcome while mRS is considered a poor outcome