Brain pacemaker tested for untreatable schizophrenia

NCT ID NCT02361554

Terminated Disease control Sponsor: Johns Hopkins University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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.

Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant treatment-refractory schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

TREATMENT-RESISTANT SCHIZOPHRENIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

The Johns Hopkins Hospital

Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States

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