Selective stimulation of the vagus nerve using electrical impedance tomography
Electrical Impedance Tomography Imaging of Functional Anatomy and Selective Stimulation of Fascicles Within the Vagus Nerve
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University College, London Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London, Greater London) |
| Trial ID | NCT05664854 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
Not a fit: Patients under 18 or those who cannot understand verbal explanations in English may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: While the approach of selective vagus nerve stimulation is novel, preliminary work in animal models suggests potential success in similar methodologies.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
London, Greater London
- 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
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.