Sound waves vs. Parkinson's: tiny trial tests brain zapping

NCT ID NCT02246374

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

Summary

This small safety trial tested a device called ExAblate that uses focused ultrasound to create a tiny lesion in the brain area linked to Parkinson's motor symptoms. Seven people with advanced Parkinson's took part to see if the procedure is safe and might improve movement. The goal was to check for side effects and measure changes in motor function over four months.

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 Transcranial System)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a non-invasive treatment option for Parkinson's motor symptoms, reducing the need for medication or surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a very early feasibility trial with only 7 participants, focused on safety. It may not lead to a widely available treatment, and risks include side effects from brain lesioning.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for PARKINSON'S DISEASE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Parkinson disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Virginia

    Charlottesville, Virginia, 22908, United States