Sound waves open brain barrier to attack tumors

NCT ID NCT03551249

Completed Disease control Sponsor: InSightec Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a device called ExAblate, which uses focused ultrasound, can safely open the blood-brain barrier in 20 people with high-grade glioma (a type of brain cancer). The goal was to allow standard chemotherapy to reach the tumor more effectively. Researchers checked for side effects and used MRI scans to see if the barrier could be opened repeatedly.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: focused ultrasound (ExAblate device)
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could help chemotherapy reach brain tumors more effectively, potentially improving treatment for glioblastoma.
What could go wrong: This was a small, early safety study with only 20 participants. It does not prove the treatment works, and there may be risks from disrupting the blood-brain barrier.

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.

glioblastoma glioma malignant glioma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

GLIOBLASTOMA GLIOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Brigham and Women's Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
University of Maryland

Baltimore, Maryland, 21201, United States
University of Virginia

Charlottesville, Virginia, 22908, United States
West Virginia University

Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, United States

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