Sound waves aimed at brain may ease OCD

NCT ID NCT07558148

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study tests whether low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) can safely target brain areas linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Ten adults with chronic OCD will receive single sessions of ultrasound to up to three brain regions. Researchers will measure changes in symptoms and brain activity using scans and surveys. This is an early safety and feasibility study, not a treatment trial.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help identify brain targets for future non-invasive OCD treatments.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early pilot study with only 10 participants. It is not designed to test treatment effectiveness, only safety and target engagement. Results may not lead to a therapy.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

obsessive-compulsive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Pennsylvania

    RECRUITING

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••