Exploring experiences of patients and families with psychiatric neurosurgery for OCD

Psychiatric Neurosurgery (PNS) for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): A Qualitative Analysis of Patient and Family Member Experiences

Observational Universitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven · NCT02537795

This study is talking to patients and their families who have had surgery for OCD to see how it affected their lives and feelings.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment40 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUniversitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven Academic / other
Locations1 site (Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant)
Trial IDNCT02537795 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to qualitatively analyze the experiences of patients and their family members who have undergone psychiatric neurosurgery, specifically deep brain stimulation or anterior capsulotomy, for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Investigators will conduct semi-structured interviews to gather insights into the emotional, psychological, and practical impacts of these treatments. The focus is on understanding the subjective experiences and perspectives of those directly affected by these interventions. This qualitative approach will help inform future practices and patient care in psychiatric neurosurgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients who have previously received deep brain stimulation or anterior capsulotomy for OCD, along with their family members.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone deep brain stimulation or anterior capsulotomy for OCD may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of patient and family experiences, leading to improved treatment approaches and support systems for OCD.

How similar studies have performed: While qualitative analyses in similar contexts have been conducted, this specific focus on OCD and psychiatric neurosurgery experiences is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* (family member of) patient who has previously been treated with deep brain stimulation or anterior capsulotomy

Exclusion Criteria:

* none

Where this trial is running

Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Obsessive-Compulsive DisorderDeep Brain StimulationAnterior Capsulotomy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.