Enhanced Spatial Targeting in ECT Utilizing FEAST

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Conditions studied: Treatment Resistant Depression

In brief

The purpose of this research study is to find an alternative version of ECT that reduces the negative side effects (mainly memory loss) while still providing patients with relief from depressive symptoms. Previous forms of ECT may use Bilateral (electrodes on both sides of the head) or Right Unilateral (RUL) (electrodes on one side of the head). Our research focuses on adjusting the placement of electrodes on one side of the head in order to better stimulate the Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) of the brain. By more specifically targeting the PFC, it is predicted that participants will receive the same benefit as ECT but will have fewer negative side effects after the treatment, mainly less memory loss. All other aspects of the treatment will be similar to regular, clinical ECT, including anesthesia and recovery monitoring. To accomplish this stimulation, an adjusted MECTA Spectrum 5000Q device will be used. If successful, this research study will demonstrate a way to improve ECT procedures for all patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder by minimizing side effects and maintaining or improving efficacy.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT04099342

Run by

University of Minnesota

People needed

20

Starts

2022-06-01

Expected to finish

2026-12-31

Last updated by the study team

2026-02-13

Who can join

Age: 22 and older, up to 90. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Diagnosis of major depressive disorder using MINI-7 to derive RDC; DSM-IV
• Pretreatment HRSD score greater than or equal to 18
• ECT indicated by physician evaluation
• Willing and capable of providing informed consent as determined by physician evaluation

You may not qualify if…

• History of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, other functional psychosis, or rapid cycling bipolar disorder as determined by MINI-7; rapid cycling defined as greater than or equal to four episodes in past year
• History of neurological illness or insult other than conditions associated with psychotropic exposure (e.g., tardive dyskinesia) determined by physician evaluation and medical history
• Alcohol or substance abuse or dependence in the past year (RDC) determined by physician evaluation
• Secondary diagnosis of a delirium, dementia, or amnestic disorder (DSM-IV), pregnancy, or epilepsy determined by physician evaluation
• Requires especially rapid antidepressant response due to suicidality, psychosis, inanition, psychosocial obligations, etc. determined by physician evaluation
• ECT in the past six months determined by physician evaluation and medical history
• Pregnancy as determined by urine pregnancy test and clinical interview

Where it is running

• University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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