RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06630702

Application of Thoracic Epidural SCS for Managing FOG in Patients With Advanced Parkinson's Disease

Application of Thoracic Epidural Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) for Managing Freezing of Gait (FOG) in Patients With Advanced Parkinson's Disease

Sponsor

National Taiwan University Hospital

Enrollment

5 participants

Start Date

Sep 20, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Parkinson Disease Spinal Cord Stimulation Freezing of Gait

Summary

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has proven to be effective for pain that is unresponsive to medication. This technique involves an anesthesiologist or a neurosurgeon placing stimulation electrodes at the thoracic vertebrae to provide pain relief. Although SCS is not currently a standard treatment for patients with Parkinson's disease, recent studies have shown that Parkinson's patients who experience intolerable pain and undergo SCS treatment not only experience pain relief but also show improvements in gait and other Parkinson's symptoms. Therefore, the investigators aim to use temporary, minimally invasive SCS electrodes to help patients with nrFOG (non-responsive Freezing of Gait) improve their stability and reduce their risk of falls.

Eligibility

Min Age: 40 YearsMax Age: 85 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is testing whether a device implanted near the spinal cord (called thoracic epidural spinal cord stimulation) can reduce "freezing of gait" — episodes where people with advanced Parkinson's disease suddenly find their feet stuck to the floor, unable to walk — when medications no longer help. **You may be eligible if...** - You are between 40 and 85 years old - You have had Parkinson's disease for more than 5 years - Your medications still help other symptoms, but freezing of gait cannot be controlled by drugs - You have no other conditions causing gait problems **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have atypical Parkinson's disease (a different type of condition) - You have had a spinal cord injury - Your freezing episodes can be controlled with medication - You have spinal canal narrowing or previous spinal surgery near the implant area - You have serious blood clotting problems - You have significant memory or dementia problems (CDR score ≥2) Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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