Investigating the effects of deep brain stimulation on breathing in Parkinson's patients

Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson's Disease: Respiratory Testing

Observational University of Oxford · NCT04058457

This study is trying to see if deep brain stimulation surgery for Parkinson's patients affects their breathing and if it causes any breathing problems.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Oxford Academic / other
Locations1 site (Oxford, Oxfordshire)
Trial IDNCT04058457 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on patients with Parkinson's disease who are scheduled for deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, specifically targeting the subthalamic nucleus (STN). The aim is to determine if respiratory issues, such as breathlessness, are a consequence of STN stimulation. Participants will undergo assessments before and after surgery, including respiratory questionnaires and tests of respiratory function, with data collected on daily physical activity using wearable devices. Additionally, MRI scans will be analyzed to explore structural connectivity related to respiratory changes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who are scheduled for DBS surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have acute respiratory issues, or are involved in other clinical investigations affecting the respiratory system may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of respiratory complications in Parkinson's patients undergoing DBS, potentially leading to improved patient management.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on DBS and its effects on various symptoms of Parkinson's disease, the specific focus on respiratory issues related to STN stimulation is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Participant is willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study.
* Male or female, aged 18 years or above.
* Planned for required DBS surgery
* Fluent in the English language
* For experimental group: diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

Exclusion Criteria:

* Female who is pregnant
* Subject is currently participating in a clinical investigation that includes an active treatment arm which may affect the respiratory system.
* Acute respiratory problem at time of experimental session: e.g. rhinosinusitis, pharyngitis, asthma exacerbation

Where this trial is running

Oxford, Oxfordshire

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 Parkinson DiseaseParkinson diseasemovement disorderdyspnoeadyspneabreathlessnessrespiratory
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.