Neuromodulation effects on laryngeal dystonia
The Effects of Neuromodulation on Phonatory Function in Laryngeal Dystonia
This study is testing if a brain stimulation treatment can help people with laryngeal dystonia improve their voice and overall quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 25 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MGH Institute of Health Professions Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT05095740 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on individuals diagnosed with laryngeal dystonia, a condition that severely impacts voice quality and quality of life. The research aims to understand the cortical excitability and inhibition of laryngeal muscles, which may provide insights into the pathophysiology of the disorder. By comparing brain activity patterns in patients with laryngeal dystonia to those with limb dystonia, the study seeks to identify potential novel interventions for this challenging condition. Participants will receive either active rTMS or sham treatment to evaluate the efficacy of this approach.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 21-85 who have been diagnosed with laryngeal dystonia and are experiencing severe symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dystonia, vocal fold pathology, or those who have had laryngeal surgery may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new, effective treatments for laryngeal dystonia, improving voice quality and overall quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches using TMS have been successful in limb dystonia, this application in laryngeal dystonia is novel and has not been previously tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age range is 21-85 years * Diagnosis of Laryngeal Dystonia (LD) * Subject is able to give informed consent * Symptoms at worst severity if receiving botulinum toxin injections * Subject has signed the consent form Exclusion Criteria: * Other forms of dystonia * Vocal fold pathology or paralysis * Essential tremor * Laryngeal cancer or other neurologic conditions with medications affecting the central nervous system * History of laryngeal surgery * Adults lacking the ability to consent or complete the assessments and intervention * Seizure in the last 2 years * Contraindications to rTMS
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Teresa J Kimberley — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Teresa J Kimberley, PhD,PT — MGH Institute of Health Professions
- Study coordinator: Caitlin Koehler, Lab Manager
- Email: brainrecoverylab@mghihp.edu
- Phone: 617-643-6564
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.