Could a simple ear device protect the brain after injury?
NCT ID NCT07384845
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a device that gently stimulates a nerve in the ear can reduce brain damage and inflammation after a traumatic brain injury or bleeding stroke. Sixty adults will be randomly assigned to receive either real stimulation or a sham (fake) treatment. Researchers will measure brain injury markers and inflammation levels in blood and spinal fluid to see if the device helps.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) device
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive way to protect the brain and reduce inflammation after a traumatic brain injury or stroke.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage trial with only 60 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The device may not provide any benefit over sham treatment.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
UHCZagreb
Zagreb, 10000, Croatia
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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