Brain pacemaker tested for untreatable schizophrenia
NCT ID NCT02361554
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This pilot study tested deep brain stimulation (DBS) in 15 people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who still had severe hallucinations despite medication. The device was placed in a brain area linked to schizophrenia to try to calm symptoms. The study was terminated early, so we don't have clear results on whether it worked.
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 with SensSight)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could offer a new option for people with severe schizophrenia who don't respond to medication, potentially reducing hallucinations and improving daily function.
What could go wrong
This was a very small, early pilot study that was terminated, so results are limited. Deep brain stimulation is invasive brain surgery and carries risks like infection, bleeding, or device-related side effects.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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The Johns Hopkins Hospital
Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States