Mini Bronchoalveolar Lavage for Lung Injury
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial focuses on how the immune system, particularly macrophages, responds to lung injuries and inflammation in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Researchers aim to understand how these cells control inflammation and how their roles differ from other immune cells. The study also seeks to determine if frequent testing, such as the Non-Bronchoscopic Mini Bronchoalveolar Lavage (a procedure for collecting lung samples), can accelerate treatment for lung infections in ventilated patients. Individuals in the ICU on mechanical ventilators due to ARDS or similar conditions may be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to foundational research that could lead to faster and more effective treatments for ARDS.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the research team or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this mini bronchoalveolar lavage is safe for patients on mechanical ventilation?
Research has shown that Non-Bronchoscopic Mini Bronchoalveolar Lavage (mini-BAL) safely studies lung conditions. Studies have found that patients, even very young ones with serious lung problems, tolerate this procedure well. It has been safely used to help diagnose lung infections in newborns, including those born prematurely.
The procedure involves using a small amount of saline (a saltwater solution) to wash a part of the lung, which is then tested. This method doesn't use a camera or scope, making it less invasive. Consequently, reports of problems or side effects are few. This suggests that mini-BAL is a reliable and safe option for assessing lung health in patients with conditions like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the mini bronchoalveolar lavage procedure because it offers a less invasive way to manage lung injuries in patients on mechanical ventilation. Unlike traditional bronchoalveolar lavage, which requires a bronchoscope, this mini version is non-bronchoscopic, meaning it can be performed more easily and with fewer resources. This could potentially lead to quicker, safer assessments of lung conditions, allowing for faster and more targeted treatment decisions in the ICU setting.
What evidence suggests that this Mini Bronchoalveolar Lavage is effective for lung injury?
Research has shown that non-bronchoscopic mini bronchoalveolar lavage can help study lung infections and inflammation. In one study, researchers used this technique to collect samples from patients with sudden lung injury, effectively identifying infections like pneumonia. Another study found it to be an easy and useful way to diagnose ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), enabling quicker treatment. This method allows doctors to collect lung fluid without a bronchoscope, a long, flexible tube typically used for this purpose. These findings suggest that this method could improve lung condition management by providing faster diagnosis and treatment. Participants in this trial will undergo non-bronchoscopic mini bronchoalveolar lavage to further evaluate its effectiveness in managing lung conditions.12678
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for ICU patients on mechanical ventilation due to ARDS or similar conditions, expected to remain ventilated for at least 48 hours. It's not suitable for those with chronic lung diseases, recent immunosuppressant use, history of organ transplant, severe bleeding risks, a directive against life-sustaining treatment, morbid state with less than 14 days survival expectancy or pregnancy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Observation
Participants undergo procedures to collect lung fluid and nasal brushings for analysis of macrophage activity and bacterial presence.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the observational procedures, including a potential follow-up phone call.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Non-Bronchoscopic Mini Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
WilliamJanssen
Lead Sponsor
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Collaborator