Washington University seeks participants for a research study to look at the safety and efficacy of Intracalvarial Prefrontal Cortical Stimulation (IPCS) for persons who experience severe treatment-resistant depression (symptoms that have not improved after trying two or more medications).
IPCS is a minimally invasive treatment involving surgical placement of an electrode device in the participant's skull. Over time, electric pulses will be sent from the device to affect specific areas of the brain thought to be involved with depression.
The study includes:
- CT and MRI scans to identify where to implant the device
- completion of baseline assessments for data collection
- surgical implantation of the device in the skull
- surgical implantation of another device (a pulse generator) below the skin in the right side of the chest
- implantation of an under-the-skin wire to connect the devices
- a series of study visits over a period of up to 18 months
- access to Washington University Neurosurgery and Psychiatry on-call physician services for urgent study-related issues throughout participation
Eligibility includes:
- diagnosis of chronic (greater than or equal to two years) or recurrent (multiple prior episodes) depression and are currently experiencing a major depressive episode as defined by DSM V criteria
- diagnosed with treatment resistant depression
- between the ages of 21 and 80
To discuss more details and participation, contact Karen Flavin, RN, CRC, at 314-747-6998 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..