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Correlation of STN-DBS Induced Visuospatial Changes and Freezing of Gait

Description

The purpose of this research is to determine how deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease affects attention and visuospatial function. Additionally, this study will evaluate how deficits in visual attention are associated with freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson's disease. There is currently no reliable treatment for FOG and little is understood about the underlying reason this occurs. Some recent research has found that stimulating the right side of the brain seems to improve FOG. The right side of the brain is also paramount for visual attention, which is why investigators are conducting this study.

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

The purpose of this research is to determine how deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease affects attention and visuospatial function. Additionally, this study will evaluate how deficits in visual attention are associated with freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson's disease. There is currently no reliable treatment for FOG and little is understood about the underlying reason this occurs. Some recent research has found that stimulating the right side of the brain seems to improve FOG. The right side of the brain is also paramount for visual attention, which is why investigators are conducting this study.

Characterization of Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation Laterality on Visuospatial Attention and Correlation to Freezing of Gait in Parkinson's Disease

Correlation of STN-DBS Induced Visuospatial Changes and Freezing of Gait

Condition
Parkinson Disease
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Charleston

Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States, 29403

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * Subjects above 18 years of age
  • * Subjects with freezing of gait
  • * Subjects with bilateral STN-DBS surgery as part of their clinical care for Parkinson's disease
  • * Uncorrected visual or hearing impairments, as indicated by self-report
  • * Individuals who are pregnant or expect to become pregnant during the course of the study
  • * Individuals with dementia or relevant brain lesions impacting cognition or gait

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Years to

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

Medical University of South Carolina,

Nathan DeTurk, MD, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, Medical University of South Carolina

Study Record Dates

2026-06