NCT05557864 · University of Minnesota
Effects of Pallidal Deep Brain Stimulation Location on Motor Impairment in Parkinson's Disease
What this study is about
This protocol will characterize the effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) location (both adverse and beneficial) on motor signs in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). This information can be used to inform future DBS protocols to tailor stimulation to the specific needs of a patient.
View original scientific description
This protocol will characterize the effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) location (both adverse and beneficial) on motor signs in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). This information can be used to inform future DBS protocols to tailor stimulation to the specific needs of a patient. If targeted dorsal GP stimulation is shown to significantly improve motor features that are typically resistant to dopamine replacement therapy, these experiments will likely have major impact on clinical practice by providing a potential strategy to these medically intractable symptoms.
Interventions
DEVICE
Deep Brain Stimulation
Pallidal Deep Brain Stimulation
Primary outcome measures
Changes in the combined elastic, viscous and inertial resistance across conditions will be assessed by integrating the resistive torque
Time frame: 3 weeks
Average movement rate and amplitude for each tone rate-movement amplitude interval. The amount of variability in angular displacement and velocity will be calculated using the root mean square of the zero mean signal. The structure of the variability will be calculated using the sample entropy function. In addition, we will quantify the number and duration of movement festination or freezing episodes.
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
- diagnosis of idiopathic PD
- have undergone neurosurgery to implant deep brain stimulators in the globus pallidus (GP DBS) or subthalamic nucleus (STN)
- Existing 7T brain imagery
Exclusion criteria
- history of musculoskeletal disorders that significantly affect movement of the upper or lower limbs
- other significant neurological disorder
- history of dementia or cognitive impairment as found with UBACC (or MacCAT-CR)
- post-operative complications or adverse effects
Where
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Related conditions & keywords
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 Jan 26, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations