Brain pacemaker for OCD? tiny trial tests new approach

NCT ID NCT03184454

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests deep brain stimulation, a device that sends electrical pulses to specific brain areas, for people with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that hasn't improved with standard treatments. Only 2 participants are enrolled. The goal is to see if this approach can reduce OCD symptoms and improve quality of life.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: deep brain stimulation device
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new treatment option for people with severe OCD that hasn't responded to other therapies.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, tiny trial with only 2 participants, so results may not apply to others. The procedure carries risks like mood changes or speech problems.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Massachusetts General Hospital

Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States
University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55454, United States

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