Brain pacemaker trial aims to tame severe OCD
NCT ID NCT07303946
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether deep brain stimulation (like a pacemaker for the brain) can help people with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that hasn't improved with medication. Four participants will have electrodes implanted and receive stimulation at one of two brain areas, then switch to the other. The goal is to see if this approach is feasible and reduces OCD symptoms.
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 (Medtronic Percept system with electrodes)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a better brain target for deep brain stimulation to control severe OCD symptoms.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early, tiny feasibility study with only 4 people. It is designed to test if the approach is possible, not to prove it works. Risks include surgery complications and uncertain benefit.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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