DBS for Chronic Pain
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) holds promise as a new option for patients suffering from treatment-resistant chronic pain, but current technology is unable to reliably achieve long-term pain symptom relief. A "one-size-fits-all" approach of continuous, 24/7 brain stimulation has helped patients with some movement disorders, but the key to reducing pain may be the activation of stimulation only when needed, as this may help keep the brain from adapting to stimulation effects. By expanding the technological capabilities of an investigative brain stimulation device, the investigators will enable the delivery of stimulation only when pain signals in the brain are high, and then test whether this more personalized stimulation leads to reliable symptom relief for chronic pain patients over extended periods of time.
Eligibility Criteria
Adults over 21 with severe chronic pain from conditions like post-stroke pain, spinal cord injury, or phantom limb pain that hasn't improved after trying several medications. They must be able to speak/read English and women should use contraception. Excluded are those with incompatible implants, cognitive impairments, recent substance abuse, major medical issues increasing surgery risk, or who can't stop certain blood thinners.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Medtronic Activa PC+S (Deep Brain Stimulation)