Improving accuracy of electrode implantation in deep brain stimulation

Correlation of Tractography and Motor Evoked Potentials in Deep Brain Stimulation

Observational Nova Scotia Health Authority · NCT03136302

This study is testing a new way to place electrodes more accurately in the brain for people with movement disorders or chronic pain to see if it can reduce side effects like muscle spasms and speech problems.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment60 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorNova Scotia Health Authority Academic / other
Locations1 site (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
Trial IDNCT03136302 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to establish a new anatomical referencing system to enhance the precision of implanting stimulation electrodes for patients undergoing deep brain stimulation. The research focuses on determining optimal distances to reference fiber tracts for various targets, including the globus pallidus, subthalamic nucleus, and ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus. By evaluating these parameters, the study seeks to minimize stimulation-induced side effects such as muscle contractions and speech difficulties. The findings could lead to improved outcomes for patients with movement disorders or chronic pain.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with movement disorders like Parkinson's Disease, tremor, or dystonia who are eligible for deep brain stimulation.

Not a fit: Patients who lack consent or have devices that prevent MRI performance may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate deep brain stimulation procedures, reducing side effects and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using anatomical referencing systems is not widely tested, similar studies in deep brain stimulation have shown promising results in improving surgical outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient qualifying for deep brain stimulation on the basis of a movement disorder (Parkinson's Disease, tremor, dystonia) or chronic pain disease.
* Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Lack of consent
* Electrical or other devices that preclude the performance of an MRI

Where this trial is running

Halifax, Nova Scotia

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 Improving Accuracy of Implanting Stimulation Electrodes
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.