Mapping Epileptic Networks with MRI and iEEG

Optimized Intracranial EEG Targeting in Focal Epilepsy Based Upon Neuroimaging Connectomics

Early Phase 1 Interventional University of Pennsylvania · NCT04649008

This study is testing a new way to use MRI and brain wave recordings to help people with hard-to-treat epilepsy understand their seizures better and improve their chances of successful surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment290 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pennsylvania Academic / other
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT04649008 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to develop noninvasive imaging biomarkers that can predict the functional dynamics of intracranial EEG (iEEG) and surgical outcomes for patients with intractable epilepsy. By integrating MRI and iEEG data, the researchers seek to create tools that can accurately map epileptic networks, potentially reducing the need for invasive diagnostic procedures. The study focuses on patients with temporal lobe epilepsy who are scheduled for iEEG placement, and it will explore the relationship between structural and functional brain measures and seizure dynamics. The ultimate goal is to enhance patient-specific interventions and improve surgical outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with medication-refractory epilepsy who are planned for intracranial EEG placement and are hypothesized to have temporal lobe epilepsy.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to MRI, prior intracranial surgery, or non-diagnostic iEEG findings may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to less invasive and more effective treatments for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using noninvasive imaging techniques to improve epilepsy treatment, but this specific approach is innovative and aims to validate new biomarkers.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with medication-refractory epilepsy
* Planned intracranial EEG (IEEG) placement
* Hypothesized to have temporal lobe epilepsy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication to 3T MRI (e.g. metal implants or claustrophobia), clinical features that typically preclude the use of IEEG (e.g. pregnancy), prior intracranial surgery or device, and IEEG findings that are non-diagnostic (e.g. seizure onset zone(s) not identified)

Where this trial is running

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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 EpilepsyEpilepsy IntractableEpilepsy, Temporal Lobe
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.