Combining Non-Invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Robotic Training in Upper Limb-Impaired Chroni… (NCT02878720) | Clinical Trial Compass
UnknownNot Applicable
Combining Non-Invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Robotic Training in Upper Limb-Impaired Chronic Stroke Patients
Italy30 participantsStarted 2016-01
Plain-language summary
Previous studies suggested that both robot-assisted rehabilitation and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation can improve upper limb function in chronic stroke patients. Aim of present study is to explore whether the combination of these two approaches might enhance their positive effects on motor recovery. Safety and efficacy of this combination will be assessed within a proof-of-principle, double-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled trial. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) will be delivered at left ear, in order to improve the response to the following robot-assisted therapy. Patients with both ischemic and hemorrhagic chronic stroke will be randomized to robot-assisted therapy associated with real or sham tVNS, delivered for 10 working days. Change in Fugl-Meyer has been chosen as primary outcome, while changes in several quantitative indicators of motor performance extracted by the robot as secondary outcomes.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* first-ever ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke at least 1 year earlier
* hand function impairment
* ability to give informed consent and comprehend instructions
Exclusion Criteria:
* previous surgical intervention on vagus nerve
* low hearth rate (\< 60 bpm)
* cognitive impairment or any substantial decrease in alertness, language reception, or attention that might interfere with understanding instructions for motor testing
* apraxia
* excessive pain in any joint of the paretic extremity
* advanced liver, kidney, cardiac or pulmonary disease
* history of significant alcohol or drug abuse
* depression or use of neuropsychotropic drugs such as antidepressants or benzodiazepines
* pregnant women
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Fugl-Meyer Score
Timeframe: immediately, one months and three months after the intervention