Vagus nerve stimulation for improving motor function after stroke

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 phase 1 trial investigates the safety and efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) applied within three months of an ischemic stroke to enhance motor rehabilitation. The study compares early VNS intervention to traditional late-stage stimulation, hypothesizing that earlier treatment may yield better outcomes for upper-extremity function. Participants will be monitored for improvements in motor abilities, specifically targeting those with moderate-to-severe hemiparesis. The trial aims to provide insights into the optimal timing for VNS in stroke rehabilitation.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Eligible individuals suffered a first-time, unilateral, ischemic stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory that spared the diencephalon and basal ganglia 3-36 months before surgery.

  * Individuals with persistent moderate-to-severe upper-extremity hemiparesis as defined by an FM-UE score of ≤42
  * Sufficient upper-extremity motor ability to engage in rehabilitation (that is, a score of ≥1 on the FM-UE elbow flexion, elbow extension or finger mass flexion or extension).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Excessive spasticity or contracture of the upper-extremity muscles (that is, Modified Ashworth Scale = 4) . Severe cognitive impairment (Mini Mental State Examination \< 24)

Where it's running

• Qilu Hospital of Shandong University
  Jinan, Shandong, China Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Chao Zhang
• Email: chao_zhang@sdu.edu.cn
• Phone: 13969007232

Similar studies

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.