Brain Activity and Neurochemical Monitoring for Epilepsy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore brain function by monitoring activity during epilepsy-related surgeries. Advanced technology records brain signals as participants engage in simple computer-based tasks. The study seeks to understand how these signals relate to conditions like anxiety and depression. People undergoing surgery for epilepsy who can perform these tasks may be suitable candidates. Participants should maintain stable medication doses for at least a month before surgery. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance understanding and treatment of neurological conditions.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that your medications be at stable doses for at least 1 month before surgery, so you may not need to stop taking them, but they should not be changed during this time.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for epilepsy patients?
Research has shown that behavioral testing with intracranial monitoring is generally safe, though some risks exist. Studies have found that safety issues, such as multiple seizures occurring close together, occur in about 9% of people admitted for epilepsy monitoring. This indicates that while most people do not experience problems, some might.
One study demonstrated that a similar procedure, brain-responsive neurostimulation, significantly reduced seizures over nine years and maintained a good safety record. This suggests that while potential risks exist, they are often manageable, and the benefits can be significant.
Overall, these findings indicate that although some safety concerns may arise, the procedures involved in intracranial monitoring are generally well-tolerated.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a new way to monitor and understand epilepsy. Unlike traditional treatments that primarily focus on controlling seizures with medication, this approach uses intracranial electrodes to directly monitor brain activity and neurochemical changes during behavioral tasks. This method offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the brain's real-time response to epilepsy, potentially leading to more targeted therapies in the future. By understanding these neurochemical processes, researchers hope to develop personalized treatment strategies that could improve outcomes for epilepsy patients.
What evidence suggests that behavioral testing under intracranial monitoring is effective for understanding epilepsy?
Research shows that special brain monitoring during tests can help locate the part of the brain causing seizures. In this trial, participants will undergo behavioral testing under intracranial monitoring to identify seizure origins. For some patients, this method greatly reduces seizures. Studies indicate that up to 50% of epilepsy surgeries require this type of direct brain recording to succeed. Advanced tools like machine learning enhance seizure tracking and aid in creating personalized treatment plans. While not every patient experiences improvement, many have fewer seizures, and some become seizure-free for extended periods.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Robert Bina, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Arizona
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-80 with intractable epilepsy or similar conditions requiring brain surgery, fluent in English, and able to consent. Excluded are those with significant cognitive dysfunction, terminal illness, MRI contraindications (like pacemakers), current or planned pregnancy during the study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-surgical Assessment
Standard clinical neuropsychological battery to assess aspects of cognitive function prior to surgery
Intracranial Monitoring and Behavioral Testing
Patients undergo behavioral tasks while being monitored by intracranial electrodes, including neurotransmitter concentration recording during cognitive tasks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Behavioral testing under intracranial monitoring
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Arizona
Lead Sponsor
Arizona State University
Collaborator
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Collaborator