CompletedNot Applicable

Exploring the Cortical Hemodynamic Response of Excitatory Brain Stimulation: a Pilot Study

Hong Kong24 participantsStarted 2022-06-01

Plain-language summary

Intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) is a promising treatment for major depressive disorder. However, fewer than 50% of patients show sufficient response. Therefore, the optimal treatment protocol is worth investigating. Recent studies show that the relationship between stimulation intensity and prefrontal hemodynamic response is not linear but in an inverse U-shape by exploring the hemodynamic changes before and after iTBS. Concurrent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)/functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) setup allows the investigators to observe the prefrontal hemodynamic response during stimulation. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different intensities on brain activity during and after the stimulation using fNIRS.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 35 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: * Right-handed Exclusion Criteria: * history of epilepsy, seizures, or convulsions * current or past diagnosis of neurological disorders, such as head injuries, strokes, encephalitis, epilepsy, Parkinson's, or Alzheimer's * current or past diagnosis of psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, or autism * with metal implants, such as a cochlear implant, neurostimulator, or cardiac pacemaker

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

Oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO) change compared to baseline

Timeframe: During and post TBS-fNIRS measurement, up to 3 months

Trial details

NCT IDNCT05427552

SponsorThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2022-08-31

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