Focused Ultrasound + Virtual Reality for Visual Field Loss After Stroke
(LIFU-IVR Trial)

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Duke University

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?This research will explore if brain stimulation combined with virtual reality therapy improves visual impairment. The stimulation technique is called low-intensity focused ultrasound stimulation (LIFUS). The treatment uses ultrasound to stimulate vision specific parts of the brain. Before this therapy, the participants will get structural brain imaging. Functional brain imaging will be performed before and after the study's completion to measure brain activity response to therapy. The purpose of this research study is to evaluate patients who have had a stroke between 6 and 24 months ago with a visual field impairment. The duration of active participation in the study is 1.5 months.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for individuals who had a stroke between 6 and 24 months ago and are now experiencing visual field impairments like hemianopia or quadrantanopia. Participants must undergo brain imaging before the therapy.

Inclusion Criteria

I am 18 years old or older.

I had a stroke between 6 to 24 months ago, confirmed by a scan.

I have partial or complete vision loss in half of my visual field.

Exclusion Criteria

Inability to get a new MRI

I do not have a history of major eye problems like blindness or severe vision loss.

I don't have metal implants, scalp wounds, or am not pregnant.

+4 more

Participant Groups

The study tests if low-intensity focused ultrasound stimulation (LIFUS), combined with immersive virtual reality, can improve vision in stroke patients. Brain activity will be measured before and after the treatment to assess its effectiveness.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Placebo Group

Group I: LIFUS with IVRExperimental Treatment2 Interventions

Participants are randomized to the active group will undergo active Low intensity-focused ultrasound stimulation (LIFUS) combined with Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) therapy.

Group II: Inactive LIFUS with IVRPlacebo Group2 Interventions

The participants in the Sham group will undergo inactive low-intensity focused ultrasound stimulation combined with Immersive virtual reality therapy