NCT06266364 · The University of Texas at Dallas
Targeted Plasticity Therapy for PTSD
What this study is about
Objectives of this study are to provide continued safety assessment for the ReStore system, and to gain further estimates of the effect size of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy with Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) compared to PE with placebo (sham) stimulation in participants with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
View original scientific description
Objectives of this study are to provide continued safety assessment for the ReStore system, and to gain further estimates of the effect size of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy with Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) compared to PE with placebo (sham) stimulation in participants with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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 chronic PTSD for at least 3 months based on DSM-5 criteria
- In the medical opinion of the Principal Investigator (PI), failed at least one adequate course of first-line PTSD treatment per American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines
- PCL-5 score greater than 33
- Age 22-79 years
- Appropriate surgical candidate for VNS device implantation
- Willing and able to comply with study protocol
- Able to provide informed consent.
Exclusion criteria
- Currently undergoing prolonged exposure therapy elsewhere
- Concurrent participation in another interventional clinical trial
- Prior injury to vagus nerve
- Prior or current treatment with vagus nerve stimulation
- Psychiatric disorders and/or cognitive impairments that would interfere with study participation, as assessed by medical evaluation
- Moderate-High Risk of Suicide according to Columbia - Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) Screen Version
- Persons with a current or past: (a) medical (psychiatric, non-psychiatric) condition, disease, disorder, injury, or disability or (b) non-medical situation or circumstance that, in the opinion of the principal investigator, study participation:
- may pose a significant or undue risk to the person,
- make it unlikely the person will complete all the study requirements per protocol, or
- may adversely impact the integrity of the data or the validity of the study results
- Persons with a neck circumference larger than 18.5 inches
- Females of childbearing potential who are either pregnant or planning to become pregnant and who are not using, or will not agree to use medically acceptable birth control methods
- Non-English speaking
- As determined by the principal investigator, is under current incarceration or legal detention
Where
- Austin, Texas
- Dallas, Texas
- Richardson, Texas
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 Jun 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations