Brain pacemaker tested for uncontrollable tics
NCT ID NCT01817517
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) could help people with severe Tourette syndrome whose symptoms don't improve with medication. Researchers placed tiny electrodes in a part of the brain called the thalamus to try to calm abnormal signals that cause tics. Only 2 people took part, and the study was stopped early, so we don't have clear answers yet.
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
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a treatment for severe Tourette syndrome that doesn't respond to medication.
What could go wrong
This was a very early, tiny study (only 2 people) that was terminated. DBS requires brain surgery and carries risks like infection or device problems. The FDA hasn't approved it for Tourette syndrome.
Disclaimer
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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.
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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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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The Johns Hopkins Hospital
Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States