Testing mild electrical stimulation for coma exams
Part of Brain & nervous system clinical trials.
This study tests if a mild electrical skin stimulation (like a TENS unit) can be used instead of a painful pinch to check brain function in coma patients. It aims to make the standard coma exam more comfortable and consistent.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You are in a coma and not responding, so doctors need to use a painful stimulus to check your reflexes.
- You are currently in the neuro ICU at Barrow Neurological Institute.
- You are at least 18 years old.
- A family member or legal guardian is available to give consent for you.
- You do not have a pacemaker or other heart device that is turned on.
- You are not pregnant, not a prisoner, and not in a medical crisis that needs urgent treatment.
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
Similar studies
Other trials that look related to this one.
This trial tests whether a gentle electrical stimulation of a nerve in the neck (called the vagus nerve) can help people wake up from a coma or a similar low-awareness state after a brain injury. The stimulation is delivered through a small device placed on the ear, and researchers will monitor if it improves consciousness.
This trial studies a device and plan to assess brain function and deliver an intervention in people who are in a coma, minimally conscious state, or unresponsive arousal state after brain injury, stroke, or lack of oxygen. If you qualify, it may help doctors understand and potentially improve brain function over time.
This study tests a new way to stimulate deep parts of the brain using harmless electric fields from the scalp. The goal is to help people who are in a coma or a minimally conscious state after a brain injury to wake up and recover more function.
This trial tests a non-invasive treatment called transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) to help people recover consciousness after severe brain injury. The treatment uses mild electrical pulses on specific points on the hands and may help improve awareness and responsiveness.
This study tests a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to see if it can reduce pain in patients who are sedated and on a breathing machine in the intensive care unit (ICU). If you or your loved one is currently sedated and receiving morphine for pain, this trial may offer an additional way to manage pain.
This trial tests if a gentle electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve (a nerve in the neck) can help people regain consciousness after a severe traumatic brain injury. It is for patients who are in a coma or minimally conscious state, and the treatment is given along with standard ICU care.
Hear when a new Comatose trial opens
We’ll email you when one opens — at most once a week, no account needed, unsubscribe anytime.