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Seminars in Neurosurgery 2003; 14(2): 139-146
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-42769
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Clinical Trials for Traumatic Brain Injury: The Road Traveled and Development of New Pathways

Paul G. Matz
  • Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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Publication History

Publication Date:
02 October 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Therapeutic clinical trials for the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) have consumed medical and financial resources with few positive results. Current arguments as to why so many trials failed include heterogeneity in the TBI population, delay in instituting therapy, poor penetration of the brain with pharmacological agents, and a lack of understanding regarding the pathophysiological mechanisms involved. This article examines the major trials that have failed, possible reasons for their failure, and possible modifications to improve future TBI trials.

KEYWORDS

Brain - clinical trial - trauma

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