Improving swallowing function in post-stroke patients using brain stimulation

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of optimized transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) compared to sham stimulation in enhancing swallowing function in patients suffering from dysphagia following a stroke. Participants will include first-time stroke patients who are in the subacute or chronic phase of recovery, with confirmed swallowing difficulties. The study aims to determine if this non-invasive brain stimulation technique can provide temporary improvements in swallowing ability. The trial will involve a controlled setup where one group receives the active treatment while another group receives a placebo.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* men and women \>19 years old
* patients with stroke confirmed by neuroimaging
* first-time stroke patients
* patients in subacute or chronic phases of stroke with 3 weeks or more after onset
* stroke patients with confirmed dysphagia through Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study (VFSS).

Exclusion Criteria:

* patients with recurrent stoke, traumatic brain injury, spine cord injury, and degenerative brain disease, such as Parkinson's disease, etc.
* patients with deteriorated cognitive function unable to perform the clinical trial as instructed
* patients with evidence of delirium, confusion, or other impairment of consciousness
* patients with uncontrolled medical disease or surgical conditions
* patients ineligible for Transcranial direct current stimulation (due to scalp condition, metallic material at the electrode attachment area, presence of a pacemaker or cochlear implant)
* patients with previous experience within the last year using a stimulation device similar to the one use in this clinical trial or who have participated in related clinical trials
* patients with severe neurologic disorder with concomitant major psychiatric disorder such as major depressive disorder and dementia
* patients with history of uncontrolled epilepsy within 6 months
* patients with medical contraindications for neuroimaging test, such as MRI;
* patients who are taken contraindicated medications or require medication changes during the trial period that could influence cognitive/motor function changes via brain activation changes
* patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy during the trial period
* patients considered medically ineligible for participation in the present trial beyond the criteria listened above.

Where it's running

• The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital
  Bucheon-si, South Korea Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: TaeYeong Kim
• Email: ty.kim@neurophet.com
• Phone: 827051678882

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.