Detecting fast brain signals to improve epilepsy treatment
Official title: Using Micro-filaments to Detect "fast Ripples" and Improve the Identification of the Epileptogenic Zone
Run by McGill University · NCT05254730 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new tiny electrodes to see if they can help find the source of seizures in people with hard-to-treat epilepsy, making it easier to plan better treatments.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | McGill University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Montreal, Quebec) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 20, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT05254730 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with refractory epilepsy who are eligible for stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) procedures.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe psychiatric disorders, ongoing infections, or contraindications for MRI or intracerebral investigation may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance the identification of the epileptogenic zone in patients with refractory epilepsy by using novel intracranial electrodes equipped with micro-tetrodes to record fast ripples. The approach focuses on improving localization and reducing monitoring duration, particularly for patients who do not have enough seizures during the implantation period. Additionally, the study seeks to provide better surgical treatment options for patients whose previous assessments with macro-electrodes were inconclusive. The data collected will also contribute to a deeper understanding of the neuronal circuits involved in epilepsy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate identification of the epileptogenic zone, resulting in improved surgical outcomes for epilepsy patients.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies using advanced electrode technology have shown promise in improving epilepsy treatment outcomes.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * inclusion criteria is determined based on the clinical diagnosis of the refractory epilepsy and the admissibility of the patient for the stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) procedure Exclusion Criteria: * severe psychiatric disorders, * severe agitation during their crisis * contraindication for performing an MRI: claustrophobia, a cardiac or neural stimulator, ferromagnetic surgical clips, cochlear implants, intraocular metallic foreign body or in the nervous system, * contraindication to intracerebral investigation (macro-electrodes): ongoing infection, severe associated pathology (cardiac, pulmonary, renal, hepatic), pregnant or nursing women, * anti thrombotic ongoing treatment.
Where it's running
-
McGill University
Montreal, Quebec, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Adrien Peyrache, PhD
- Email: adrien.peyrache@mcgill.ca
- Phone: 514-398-6780
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.