NCT06871124 · University of Cincinnati
Early Neuromodulation in Traumatic Brain Injury
What this study is about
The two goals of the proposed study are: (1) To determine how brain activity changes with cognitive recovery over time from acute to chronic phases of traumatic brain injury (TBI). (2) To determine how the time of anodal transcranial electrical stimulation (A-tES) administration affects cognitive performance and brain activity in TBI.
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The two goals of the proposed study are: (1) To determine how brain activity changes with cognitive recovery over time from acute to chronic phases of traumatic brain injury (TBI). (2) To determine how the time of anodal transcranial electrical stimulation (A-tES) administration affects cognitive performance and brain activity in TBI. To achieve these study goals, the investigators will conduct a pilot clinical trial over three years in which the investigators aim to recruit 60 patients with moderate to severe TBI at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC). During the acute phase of TBI, all participants will complete clinical questionnaires and perform 2 cognitive computer tasks while their brain activity is recorded. Half of the participants will be randomly selected to receive A-tES for 15 minutes while performing cognitive tasks and the other half will receive sham stimulation. All participants will be followed for 6 months. During their 3-month follow-up, the investigators will perform another session where all participants complete the questionnaires and receive A-tES while performing cognitive tasks during brain recording. In their last visit at 6 months post-injury, all participants will complete the questionnaires and cognitive tasks with brain recording but no stimulation treatment. From the collected data, the investigators will determine if time from brain injury correlates with brain activity during performance of cognitive tasks. The investigators will also assess the efficacy of early A-tES treatment for improving cognitive task performance and clinical test ratings at 6 months post-injury in comparison to A-tES delivered during the 3-month follow-up visit.
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
- Moderate to severe TBI: Glasgow Coma Scale (GSC) in the 3-12 range and greater than 30 min of loss of consciousness and/or a post-traumatic amnesia that lasts more than 24 hours and/or an alteration of mental state over 24 hours,
- age 18-80 years,
- Isolated TBI,
- Intelligible speech and Galveston Orientation and Amnesia Test (GOAT) score \>70 at time of enrollment.
Exclusion criteria
- Persistent bilateral non-reactive pupils or other evidence of non-survivable injury,
- Decompressive craniectomy to treat refractory ICP subsequent to diffuse injury, (3) Co-enrollment in another therapeutic TBI trial, (4) Pregnancy, (5) Patients with polytrauma (6) Patients with clinical seizures or status epilepticus.
Where
- Cincinnati, Ohio
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 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations