NCT05493722 · University of Minnesota
Optimization of Deep Brain Stimulation Parameters in Patients With Medically Refractory Epilepsy
What this study is about
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is used to treat epilepsy in cases where patients are medically refractory and are not candidates for surgical resection. This therapy has been shown to be effective in seizure reduction, yet very few patients achieve the ultimate goal of seizure freedom.
View original scientific description
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is used to treat epilepsy in cases where patients are medically refractory and are not candidates for surgical resection. This therapy has been shown to be effective in seizure reduction, yet very few patients achieve the ultimate goal of seizure freedom. Implantable neural stimulators (INSs) have many parameters that may be adjusted, and could be tuned to achieve very patient specific therapies. This study will develop a platform for stimulation setting optimization based on power spectral density (PSD) measures.
Interventions
OTHER
PS and OS stimulation order 1
PS, OS, OS
OTHER
PS and OS stimulation order 2
OS, PS, OS
OTHER
PS and OS stimulation order 3
OS, OS, PS
Primary outcome measures
Difference in broadband power with different settings
Time frame: One year from baseline
Different settings include different combinations of stimulation amplitude, frequency and pulse width. The full spectrum PSD data from all of the in-clinic recordings at all of the unique settings will be combined to look at the resulting difference in broadband power.
Difference in frequency band-specific low-frequency power (LFP) with different settings
Time frame: One year from baseline
Different settings include different combinations of stimulation amplitude, frequency and pulse width. The full spectrum PSD data from all of the in-clinic recordings at all of the unique settings will be combined to look at the resulting difference in frequency band-specific LFP.
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
- medically refractory epilepsy
- already have a deep brain stimulator in place
Exclusion criteria
- severe dementia at investigator discretion
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 Oct 24, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations