Testing a vestibular implant to improve cognitive function in patients with vestibular damage
Official title: Vestibular implant tested in patients with peripheral vestibular damage: effects on spatial orientation, navigation, and neuropsychologic function
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-10942166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special device called a vestibular implant can help improve thinking skills like navigation and spatial awareness in people with serious balance issues, and it will compare their progress with others who have similar problems but aren't using the implant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $651,779 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC021981-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10942166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with severe vestibular damage who experience cognitive dysfunction related to their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact vestibular function or those whose cognitive issues are unrelated to vestibular impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a vestibular implant to enhance cognitive functions such as spatial orientation and navigation in patients suffering from severe vestibular damage. The study will involve long-term stimulation from the implant and compare the cognitive behaviors of implanted patients with those who have varying degrees of vestibular impairment but are not implanted. By understanding how vestibular information affects cognition, the research aims to provide insights into potential treatments for cognitive dysfunction associated with vestibular damage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive function and quality of life for patients with severe vestibular damage.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using vestibular implants for improving balance and eye movement, but this specific focus on cognitive function is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lewis, Richard F — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Lewis, Richard F
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.