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

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study examines whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) — a treatment where electrodes implanted in the brain deliver electrical signals to help control movement — affects depth perception and how those visual changes may be connected to freezing of gait (sudden inability to move the feet) in people with Parkinson's disease. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You experience freezing of gait (episodes where your feet feel glued to the floor) - You have had bilateral deep brain stimulation surgery in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) as part of your Parkinson's disease care **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have uncorrected vision or hearing problems - You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study - You have dementia or brain lesions that affect your thinking or walking ability 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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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.