Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

New Approaches in MRI at 3T Dedicated to Targeting Subthalamic Nucleus on Parkinsonian Patients

This study is exploring better ways to use advanced MRI scans to more accurately find a small area deep inside the brain called the subthalamic nucleus. This area is a target for a treatment called Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), which helps people with Parkinson's disease who have severe movement problems. DBS involves placing tiny wires (electrodes) in this brain area. Getting the electrodes in exactly the right spot is crucial for the treatment to work best. Researchers are testing new, quicker MRI scans that cause less discomfort, hoping these will provide clearer, 3D pictures of the brain area, leading to more successful DBS operations.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale, France

Enrolment target

Start

12 Oct 2016

Estimated completion

07 Dec 2025

Parkinson Disease

What is this study about?

This study is focused on improving a special brain treatment for people with Parkinson's disease called Deep Brain Stimulation, often shortened to DBS. DBS is a well-established procedure that has helped over 85,000 patients worldwide manage the severe movement problems that can come with Parkinson's. It works by sending tiny electrical signals to a small, specific part of the brain. For DBS to work well, the tiny wires (electrodes) need to be placed in exactly the right spot in the brain, which is a key area called the subthalamic nucleus.

Currently, doctors use MRI scans to help guide them during these operations. However, seeing this very tiny brain area clearly on standard MRI scans can be tricky and can vary a lot from person to person. Existing MRI scans used for this purpose can also take a long time – up to 40 minutes – which can be uncomfortable for patients who need to stay perfectly still, especially if they have involuntary movements.

This research aims to find new, more efficient ways to use advanced MRI scanners, specifically those called '3T MRI' machines. These newer machines can provide much more detailed pictures of the brain. The goal is to develop quicker MRI techniques that allow doctors to see the subthalamic nucleus more clearly and consistently. By getting better, more accurate pictures before surgery, doctors hope to improve the precision of placing the DBS electrodes, which could lead to even better results for patients with Parkinson's disease.

Key takeaways

Aims to improve MRI scans for Parkinson's disease DBS.
Focuses on better targeting a brain area called the subthalamic nucleus.
Could lead to more precise DBS surgery in the future.
Uses advanced '3T MRI' technology for clearer brain pictures.
Goal is to make MRI faster and more comfortable for patients.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you generally need to be between 18 and 70 years old and have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Your Parkinson's should be causing significant movement problems, such as big changes in your ability to move throughout the day or involuntary movements, even though you’re getting the best possible medical treatment.

Crucially, your Parkinson's symptoms must show a good improvement when you take a dose of levodopa medication. You must also be able to understand the study and agree to take part by signing a consent form. You also need to be covered by social health insurance.

However, you won't be able to join if you have certain other health issues, like serious mental health problems, or if you have memory and thinking difficulties (dementia). Also, people who have medical devices that are not safe in an MRI scanner, such as certain heart pacemakers or some metal implants, cannot take part. If you are pregnant or experience severe claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces) which would prevent you from having an MRI, you would also not be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 70 years old?
Do you have Parkinson's disease with significant movement issues?
Do your movement problems improve a lot when you take levodopa?
Do you have health insurance that covers you?
Do you *not* have any metal implants or devices that are unsafe in an MRI scanner?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information provided does not fully detail the specifics of participation regarding visits, assessments, medication, follow-up, or total duration. However, based on the study's aim to evaluate new MRI techniques for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) targeting, it is highly likely that participation would involve undergoing at least one advanced MRI scan. These scans are central to the study's purpose of improving imaging for brain surgery. It's also possible that there could be follow-up appointments to assess the quality of the imaging or the outcomes for patients who undergo DBS based on these new imaging methods.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits of taking part in this study include contributing to research that could lead to more accurate and efficient Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) procedures for Parkinson's disease in the future. Better MRI targeting could mean improved symptom control for patients. Potential risks primarily involve undergoing MRI scans, which are generally safe but may be uncomfortable for some due to noise or needing to stay still. There's also the risk of potential side effects from contrast agents if used, or reactions if you have claustrophobia. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

GHPS
Verified postcode
Paris, France

Common questions

What is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?

DBS is a treatment for Parkinson's disease where small wires are put into a specific part of the brain to help control movement problems. It's like a 'brain pacemaker'.

What is an MRI and why is it important for this study?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a special type of scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. In this study, it's used to get clear images of specific brain areas for DBS surgery.

What is the 'subthalamic nucleus'?

This is a tiny, deep area in your brain that plays a big role in controlling movement. It's the main target for Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson's disease.

Will taking part in this study improve my Parkinson's symptoms?

This study is focused on improving the MRI techniques used before DBS surgery. While better imaging *could* lead to better DBS outcomes in the future, your direct participation in this specific imaging study might not immediately change your current symptoms.

Why is it difficult to see the subthalamic nucleus on MRI?

It's a very small structure deep within the brain, and its exact location can vary slightly between people. Current MRI techniques sometimes don't provide a perfectly clear or consistent view of it.