Sound waves to soothe PTSD? new trial tests ultrasound on the brain

NCT ID NCT06820138

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests whether low intensity focused ultrasound, aimed at a deep brain region called the amygdala, can ease PTSD symptoms in 60 veterans. The treatment is non-invasive and uses sound waves similar to diagnostic ultrasound. Researchers will measure symptom changes and daily functioning over one month.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: low intensity focused ultrasound (Brainsonix Pulsar device)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, non-invasive way to reduce PTSD symptoms and improve daily functioning for veterans.
What could go wrong: This is an early phase 2 trial with only 60 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The effects may be small or short-lived, and some participants may receive a sham treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI

Providence, Rhode Island, 02908-4734, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.