Deep Brain Stimulation for Essential Tremor
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, since the trial is for people whose tremor is not helped by medications or who have intolerable side effects, it's possible you may continue your current treatment.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Deep Brain Stimulation for Essential Tremor?
Research shows that Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is effective in reducing tremors and improving daily life activities for people with essential tremor. Studies indicate significant improvements in tremor scores and disability ratings, with DBS being equally effective for essential tremor and Parkinson's disease.12345
Is deep brain stimulation (DBS) generally safe for humans?
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is generally considered safe, with most adverse events being mild and manageable. Common complications include infections and lead migrations, and some cases may require additional surgery. However, it is one of the safest treatments for conditions like Parkinson's disease and essential tremor.678910
How is deep brain stimulation different from other treatments for essential tremor?
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this study is to elucidate the structural connectivity of the dentato-rubro-thalamic tract (DRTt) and to detect functional network changes due to DRTt stimulation
Research Team
Albert J Fenoy, MD
Principal Investigator
Northwell Health
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for individuals with Essential Tremor that's not caused by another disease or injury, who haven't found relief through medications, or can't tolerate medication side effects. Their tremors must significantly affect their life quality and be confirmed by a specialist. People with severe psychiatric issues, cognitive impairments, metal in their body, recent substance abuse, pregnancy, prior brain surgery in the target area, significant neurological disorders other than ET or major medical conditions affecting the brain are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is applied to the dentato-rubro-thalamic tract (DRTt) to study structural and functional connectivity changes
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in tremor and ataxia after DBS
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Deep Brain Stimulation
Deep Brain Stimulation is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Essential tremor
- Parkinson's disease
- Dystonia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Epilepsy
- Chronic pain
- Stroke-related motor deficits (under investigation)
- Essential tremor
- Parkinson's disease
- Dystonia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Epilepsy
- Chronic pain
- Essential tremor
- Parkinson's disease
- Dystonia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Epilepsy
- Chronic pain
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northwell Health
Lead Sponsor
The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Lead Sponsor
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator