NCT07056361 · Jorge Gonzalez-Martinez
Stimulating Specific Brain Areas (VOP/VIM) With Electricity to Improve Movement and Muscle Control
What this study is about
In this study the investigators aim to enroll patients scheduled to undergo deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation for movement disorders for intra-operative testing. In addition to standard-of-care surgical procedure to implant deep brain stimulation electrode leads, participants will also be stimulated and recorded from cortical areas by a temporary strip electrode (1X6) in the subdural space.
View original scientific description
In this study the investigators aim to enroll patients scheduled to undergo deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation for movement disorders for intra-operative testing. In addition to standard-of-care surgical procedure to implant deep brain stimulation electrode leads, participants will also be stimulated and recorded from cortical areas by a temporary strip electrode (1X6) in the subdural space. The electrodes will be connected to external stimulators and a series of experiments will be performed to assess effects of the DBS on movement quality and electrophysiology measures. Results of this study will elucidate the biological mechanisms related to deep brain stimulation in modulating motor and speech function in patients with abnormal movement disorders.
Interventions
DEVICE
Direct cortical stimulation and deep brain stimulation of motor thalamus
All participants enrolled will undergo implantation of deep brain stimulation electrode leads for treatment of movement disorders. In addition to standard-of-care subcortical mapping using micro-electrode recording (MER) and macrostimulation mapping during DBS placement, cortical local field potentials (LFPs) will be simultaneously recorded from primary motor (M1) and somatosensory (S1) cortical areas by placement of a temporary strip electrode (1X6) in the subdural space. The strip electrode over M1 will be used to produce motor evoked potentials to contralateral hand muscles from direct cortical stimulation (DCMEPs). Cortical and subcortical LFPs will be obtained alongside electromyographic (EMG) data while the patient performs contralateral upper extremity movement tasks and a variety of articulation exercises.
Primary outcome measures
Electromyography Activity
Time frame: 14 days
The investigators will record electromyography activity (EMG) to measure the motor evoked potentials of upper limb and facial muscles. At the end of the procedures these needles and/or the superficial adhesive electrodes will be removed. Based on the preliminary data, the investigators will consider the number of participants with at least an 18% increase in muscle activation as minimally acceptable.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Essential tremor patients who are scheduled to undergo deep brain stimulation surgery at UPMC Presbyterian with asymmetric essential tremor symptoms will be included, with the tested limb corresponding to the least affected arm to better approximate normal function. These patients are implanted bilaterally regardless of symptom laterality, as the natural history of essential tremor indicates eventual bilateral symptoms.
- Parkinson's Disease patients who are scheduled to undergo deep brain stimulation surgery at UPMC Presbyterian with a history of Parkinson's Disease will also be recruited for intra-operative stimulation of their STN-targeted implants, to assess if VIM/VOP has high specificity for improving motor output. Confirmation that subjects' terms of insurance coverage for their standard of care procedure will not be altered by study enrollment.
Exclusion criteria
- Patients will be excluded from the study if there is any seizure history, to avoid the increased epileptogenic risk of intraoperative stimulation.
- Patients with significant bilateral tremor that precludes completion of motor tasks.
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 10, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations