Using fMRI to study brain stimulation effects
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Deep Brain Stimulation
This study tests how deep brain stimulation affects brain activity in patients with epilepsy and chronic pain to see if it can improve their treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Universitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant) |
| Trial ID | NCT03819738 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how deep brain stimulation (DBS) affects brain activity in patients with epilepsy and chronic pain using functional MRI (fMRI). By comparing brain activation patterns during stimulation ON and OFF, researchers aim to identify the specific brain networks involved in DBS. The goal is to understand the mechanisms of neuromodulation and potentially optimize treatment targets for better patient outcomes. The study focuses on patients who already have a DBS system implanted.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults with an implanted deep brain stimulation system for epilepsy or chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients who are children, pregnant women, or those unable to comply with the study protocol may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved deep brain stimulation techniques, enhancing treatment efficacy for epilepsy and chronic pain patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies using fMRI to explore brain stimulation effects have shown promise, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Deep brain stimulation system implanted Exclusion Criteria: * Children and pregnant women will be excluded. Failure to follow to protocol is also an exclusion criterion.
Where this trial is running
Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant
- UZLeuven — Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tom Theys, PhD — Universitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven
- Study coordinator: Tom Theys, PhD
- Email: tom.theys@uzleuven.be
- Phone: 016344241
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.