Recruiting

Surgery versus medication for bleeding stroke in the brain

Plain-English translation of NCT06870812 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated March 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

The REACH trial is testing a newer, less invasive surgical approach to treat a serious type of stroke caused by bleeding deep inside the brain. Researchers want to see if using minimally invasive surgery to remove the blood clot — combined with standard medical care — helps patients recover better and live longer than medication alone.

For many years, doctors have mainly treated this type of brain bleeding with medication. Recent research showed that minimally invasive surgery works well for bleeding closer to the brain's surface, so doctors want to test whether this treatment also helps when the bleeding is deeper inside the brain.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 70 years old
you have been diagnosed with a bleeding stroke in the anterior basal ganglia (a deep part of the brain) within the last 24 hours
the amount of blood in your brain is between 20 and 80 milliliters, as measured by a CT scan
you were in good overall health before your stroke (able to live independently without help from others)

You likely don't qualify if…

you have bleeding caused by an aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation, tumor, or other structural abnormality
your stroke symptoms are very mild (a score of 5 or less on a standard stroke severity test)
you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners that cannot be quickly reversed
you have severe liver or kidney disease, or a mechanical heart valve
you are currently using drugs or alcohol in a way that would interfere with following the study plan

What participation looks like

If you join this trial, you will be randomly assigned to either receive minimally invasive surgery (plus standard medical care) or standard medical care alone. If you are assigned to surgery, the procedure would typically happen within 24 hours of your stroke. You will be closely monitored during your hospital stay and will have follow-up visits afterward to measure your recovery and overall health, with your progress tracked according to standard guidelines.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 13, 2026 · Not medical advice

Surgery versus medication for bleeding stroke in the brain

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations