Improving working memory in cardiac arrest survivors with brain stimulation
Brain Outcome After Cardiac Arrest. Modifying Working Memory With Non-invasive Brain Stimulation - A Series of SCEDs
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help improve memory in adults who have had cognitive problems after surviving a cardiac arrest.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 9 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Maastricht University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Maastricht, Limburg) |
| Trial ID | NCT06119620 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of intermittent theta burst stimulation (rTMS) on working memory in adults who have experienced cognitive impairment following a cardiac arrest. Participants will undergo a series of brain stimulation sessions followed by performance assessments on the N-back task to measure changes in memory function. The study employs a single case experimental design with alternating active and sham stimulation phases to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. The goal is to enhance understanding of treatment options for cognitive deficits in this patient population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 75 who have had a cardiac arrest between 3 months and 5 years prior and demonstrate cognitive impairments.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of seizures, neurological disorders, or those with metal implants in or near the head may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved cognitive function and quality of life for cardiac arrest survivors experiencing memory impairments.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically targeting cognitive impairment post-cardiac arrest with rTMS, similar studies using brain stimulation for cognitive enhancement have shown promising results.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Had a cardiac arrest between 3 months and 5 years prior to the experiment session. * Scores lower than the general population (corrected for age, education, and sex) on at least one of the cognitive tests ( SD \< -1 on the Stroop, digit span, or TMT). * Age 18 up to and including 75. * Proficient in Dutch or English to understand the instructions for the N-back task. * Has sufficient understanding to perform the N-back task. * Written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Has a pacemaker or ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) * A history or a family member with a history of seizures / epilepsy (asked on the phone and checked on the first appointment). * Metal implants in or near the head. * Pregnancy * Any other neurological disorder impending working memory performance besides the OHCA.
Where this trial is running
Maastricht, Limburg
- Maastricht University — Maastricht, Limburg, Netherlands (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Caronline v van Heugten, Dr. prof. — Maastricht University
- Study coordinator: Pauline V van Gils, MSc
- Email: c.vangils@maastrichtuniversity.nl
- Phone: +31 (0)43 38 84095
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.