Using thalamic stimulation to improve consciousness in epilepsy patients
Thalamic stimulation to prevent impaired consciousness in epilepsy
This study is looking at how a special treatment called deep brain stimulation can help people with epilepsy who have trouble staying aware during seizures, with the hope of making their lives safer and better overall.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10686272 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the thalamic intralaminar central lateral nuclei to enhance conscious awareness in individuals experiencing impaired consciousness during seizures. The approach aims to address the significant quality of life issues faced by epilepsy patients, such as risks of accidents and social stigmatization. By restoring arousal during and after seizures, the study seeks to improve overall patient outcomes and reduce the dangers associated with impaired consciousness. The methodology includes neuroimaging and EEG studies to assess the effectiveness of thalamic stimulation in real-time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with epilepsy who experience impaired consciousness during seizures and have not responded to conventional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience impaired consciousness during seizures or those whose seizures are well-controlled with existing therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for epilepsy patients by restoring conscious awareness during seizures.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using deep brain stimulation for similar conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blumenfeld, Hal — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Blumenfeld, Hal
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 below.