Brain zaps for seizures: tiny trial tests new target

NCT ID NCT06436547

First seen Nov 19, 2025

Summary

This pilot study tests whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) of a brain region called the subiculum can safely reduce seizures in 6 people with drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy and bilateral hippocampal sclerosis. Participants receive a DBS device, and researchers track seizure frequency and quality of life over time. The goal is to see if this approach works for those who cannot have standard surgery.

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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.

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Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Xuanwu Hospital,Capital Medical University

    Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 100053, China

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 (DBS) device targeting the subiculum

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new treatment option for people with drug-resistant epilepsy who cannot have surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a very small pilot trial with only 6 participants, so results may not apply widely. The procedure carries surgical risks, and the long-term benefits are uncertain.

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Drug Resistant Epilepsy mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis

As listed by the trial registrant

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