Head of Bed Positioning for Stroke

(HoBIT Trial)

This trial explores whether the position of the bed's head aids stroke patients' recovery after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT), a procedure that removes blood clots from the brain. Researchers aim to determine if lying flat (0-degrees) or with the head raised (30-degrees or more) enhances recovery. This study targets adults who have experienced a stroke and are undergoing EVT to remove clots from large brain vessels. As an unphased trial, it offers patients the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance stroke recovery methods.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that keeping stroke patients lying flat (0-degree head position) is generally safe. In a study with 92 patients, this position helped prevent their condition from worsening. Additionally, in another group, only 6.3% of patients lying flat experienced major neurological problems, compared to 17.2% of those with their heads raised. These findings suggest that lying flat may lead to better outcomes by improving blood flow to the brain without causing harm.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how the positioning of the head of bed can impact recovery from a stroke. Most current treatments for stroke focus on medications to dissolve clots or surgical interventions to restore blood flow. This trial is investigating whether simply adjusting the angle of the bed can make a difference. The potential benefit is that it’s a non-invasive, low-cost method that could be easily implemented in hospitals everywhere, making it an accessible option for improving patient outcomes.

Research has shown that keeping the head of the bed flat can benefit stroke patients undergoing procedures to remove blood clots from the brain. In a study with 92 patients, this flat position proved safe and helped prevent their condition from worsening. Other research suggests that lying flat can lead to better stability and improvement. This trial will compare two head-of-bed positions: one group will lie flat (0-degrees), a position linked to increased blood flow to the brain in patients with strokes caused by blocked arteries. The other group will have a head-of-bed position of 30-degrees or greater. These studies suggest that lying flat might aid recovery after stroke treatment.¹²⁴⁵⁶