RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06994728

Correlation of STN-DBS Induced Visuospatial Changes and Freezing of Gait

Characterization of Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation Laterality on Visuospatial Attention and Correlation to Freezing of Gait in Parkinson's Disease

Sponsor

Medical University of South Carolina

Enrollment

12 participants

Start Date

Apr 1, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Parkinson Disease Gait Disorders, Neurologic Visuospatial/Perceptual Abilities

Summary

The purpose of this research is to determine how deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease affects attention and visuospatial function. Additionally, this study will evaluate how deficits in visual attention are associated with freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson's disease. There is currently no reliable treatment for FOG and little is understood about the underlying reason this occurs. Some recent research has found that stimulating the right side of the brain seems to improve FOG. The right side of the brain is also paramount for visual attention, which is why investigators are conducting this study.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Inclusion Criteria3

Subjects above 18 years of age
Subjects with freezing of gait
Subjects with bilateral STN-DBS surgery as part of their clinical care for Parkinson's disease

Exclusion Criteria3

Uncorrected visual or hearing impairments, as indicated by self-report
Individuals who are pregnant or expect to become pregnant during the course of the study
Individuals with dementia or relevant brain lesions impacting cognition or gait

Interventions

DEVICELeft STN-DBS on, right STN-DBS off first

There will not be any change to baseline DBS stimulation settings, only each side will be sequentially turned off during cognitive and freezing of gait assessments.

DEVICERight STN-DBS on, left STN-DBS off first

There will not be any change to baseline DBS stimulation settings, only each side will be sequentially turned off during cognitive and freezing of gait assessments.