Selective stimulation of the vagus nerve using electrical impedance tomography
Official title: Electrical Impedance Tomography Imaging of Functional Anatomy and Selective Stimulation of Fascicles Within the Vagus Nerve
Run by University College, London · NCT05664854 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to stimulate the vagus nerve to see if it can help treat conditions like epilepsy with fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University College, London Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London, Greater London) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 4, 2023 |
| Main results expected | July 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05664854 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 with a clinical diagnosis of a disorder that may respond to vagus nerve stimulation.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients under 18 or those who cannot understand verbal explanations in English may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This research aims to explore the functional anatomy of the cervical vagus nerve in humans to enable selective stimulation for treating various vagus nerve-related conditions, including epilepsy. By identifying specific fascicles within the nerve that innervate different organs, the study seeks to minimize off-target effects associated with traditional vagus nerve stimulation. The methodology involves using nerve cuff electrodes and electrical impedance tomography to achieve spatially selective stimulation. This innovative approach could lead to more effective treatments for conditions like epilepsy while reducing side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more effective and targeted treatment option for patients with epilepsy and other vagus nerve-related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of selective vagus nerve stimulation is novel, preliminary work in animal models suggests potential success in similar methodologies.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age over 18 * Written informed consent by patient or proxy * Clinical diagnosis of disorder affected directly or indirectly or will possibly respond to vagus nerve stimulation Exclusion Criteria: * Aged 17 and below * Unfortunately, it is unlikely that interpreters of all languages will be available in the unit so persons who cannot understand verbal explanation in English and for whom we could not find a suitable consultee would have to be excluded from the study.
Where it's running
-
National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery
London, Greater London, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kirill Aristovich — University College, London
- Study coordinator: Kirill Aristovich
- Email: k.aristovich@ucl.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 (0) 20 3549 5035
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.