Focused Ultrasound Spleen Stimulation and Inflammation in Septic Shock

This study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of focused ultrasound spleen neuromodulation in patients with septic shock, a life-threatening condition characterized by excessive inflammation and organ dysfunction. The primary objective is to determine whether non-invasive, focused ultrasound stimulation of the spleen can reduce circulating inflammatory cytokine levels in this patient population.

Eligibility Criteria:

Adults aged 18 years or older Diagnosed with septic shock and admitted to the ICU within 24 hours Expected to require intensive care for at least 72 hours

Study Protocol:

Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:

Intervention Group: Will receive standard septic shock care plus twice-daily focused ultrasound stimulation over the spleen for five days, using a portable device.

Control Group: Will receive standard septic shock care alone. Blood samples will be collected at baseline and Day 5 to measure inflammatory cytokine levels, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10. Additional assessments will include lymphocyte subpopulations, organ function scores, ICU length of stay, 28-day mortality, and adverse events.

Outcome Measures:

Primary: Change in levels of inflammatory cytokines on Day 5. Secondary: Changes in organ function (SOFA score), ICU length of stay, 28-day survival, and safety/tolerability of the intervention.