Deep Brain Stimulation for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
(OBSESS Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests deep brain stimulation (DBS) for patients with severe OCD who haven't improved with other treatments. DBS involves placing electrodes in the brain to send electrical signals to specific areas. The study aims to personalize these signals using advanced technology to improve treatment outcomes and make the therapy more accessible.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of this treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been shown to be an effective treatment for severe cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that do not respond to other therapies. It has been used successfully in movement disorders and is now applied to psychiatric conditions like OCD, with studies indicating improvements in symptoms and quality of life for patients.12345
Is deep brain stimulation generally safe for humans?
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been used safely for almost 50 years in treating various conditions, including movement disorders and psychiatric conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression. While generally well tolerated, some specific side effects have been observed, such as mood changes, which vary depending on the target area in the brain being stimulated.36789
How is deep brain stimulation different from other treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a unique treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) because it involves implanting electrodes in specific brain areas to modulate brain activity, which is different from medications or therapy that work through chemical or behavioral changes. This approach is particularly used for patients who do not respond to standard treatments, offering a new option for those with severe, treatment-resistant OCD.234810
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 21-70 with severe OCD that hasn't improved after trying multiple treatments, including specific antipsychotics and SSRIs, clomipramine, and at least 20 sessions of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Participants must have a significant other to communicate with the research team if needed.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Neurobehavioral Unit (NBU) Assessment
Participants undergo reward-driven decision making tasks and sleep pattern assessments in a controlled environment
Home Environment Monitoring
Participants' behaviors are monitored in their natural home environment using wearables and peripherals
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the main study phases
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Commercially available 8-contact Boston Scientific leads
- Medtronic Percept RC neurostimulator
- Novel 16-contact Boston Scientific leads (total 64 implanted DBS contacts)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Baylor College of Medicine
Lead Sponsor
University of Houston
Collaborator
University of Minnesota
Collaborator
Brown University
Collaborator
Carnegie Mellon University
Collaborator
Duke University
Collaborator
William Marsh Rice University
Collaborator
University of Washington
Collaborator
Mclean Hospital
Collaborator