Using advanced MRI to improve deep brain stimulation for essential tremor

The STEREO-DBS Study: 7-Tesla MRI Brain Network Analysis for Deep Brain Stimulation in Essential Tremor

Observational Academisch Medisch Centrum - Universiteit van Amsterdam (AMC-UvA) · NCT05909839

This study is testing if using advanced MRI technology can help doctors place deep brain stimulation electrodes better for people with essential tremor, aiming to improve their movement and quality of life.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAcademisch Medisch Centrum - Universiteit van Amsterdam (AMC-UvA) Academic / other
Locations1 site (Amsterdam, North Holland)
Trial IDNCT05909839 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance the effectiveness of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for patients with essential tremor by utilizing 7-Tesla MRI technology. The approach focuses on visualizing brain networks connected to the thalamus, which is crucial for DBS electrode placement. By creating detailed structural connectivity maps, the study seeks to individualize DBS settings, potentially leading to better patient outcomes and fewer side effects. The primary goal is to determine if this advanced imaging technique can improve motor symptoms and overall quality of life for patients undergoing DBS.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old with idiopathic essential tremor who have undergone deep brain stimulation.

Not a fit: Patients who are legally incompetent or unable to provide written informed consent will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective and personalized treatment options for patients with essential tremor.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques for DBS, suggesting that this approach could be a meaningful advancement in treatment.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age \> 18 years
* Idiopathic essential tremor who underwent DBS

Exclusion Criteria:

* Legally incompetent adults
* No written informed consent

Where this trial is running

Amsterdam, North Holland

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 Essential TremorBrain diseasesDeep brain stimulationHumans
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.