Using electrical stimulation to improve cognitive function after traumatic brain injury

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This preliminary interventional study aims to assess the feasibility of transcutaneous alternating current stimulation (TACS) in enhancing cognitive function and decision-making in adults recovering from mild to moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI). Participants will attend weekly sessions for six weeks at Hennepin Healthcare Systems, where they will be randomized to receive either TACS or a sham treatment during their sessions. The study will involve computer-based tasks to evaluate cognitive performance while undergoing stimulation. The goal is to explore the potential benefits of neuromodulation in TBI recovery.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults 18 years and older
* Diagnosis of a mild to moderate TBI (GCS \> 8 on admission)
* Able to perform a computerized assessment
* Willing to attend all scheduled appointments
* Able to undergo the informed consent process

Healthy participants:

* Adults 18 years and older
* Able to perform a computerized assessment
* Willing to attend all scheduled appointments
* Able to undergo the informed consent process

Exclusion Criteria:

* Open wound on scalp
* Severe TBI diagnosis or GCS of less than 8 on admission
* Non-English speaking
* Incarcerated
* Implanted defibrillator or pacemaker
* Visual impairment that hinders ability to complete computerized assessments

Healthy subject exclusion criteria:

* Less than 18 years of age
* Open wound on scalp
* TBI diagnosis
* Non-English speaking
* Incarcerated
* Implanted defibrillator or pacemaker
* Visual impairment that hinders ability to complete computerized assessments

Where it's running

• Hennepin County Medical Center
  Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: David Darrow, MD — University of Minnesota
• Study coordinator: David Darrow, MD
• Email: Darro015@umn.edu
• Phone: 612-873-7481

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Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.