DBS ON vs OFF for LD and VT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Deep brain stimulation for Laryngeal Dystonia and Vocal Tremor: A Blinded Comparison of Stimulation Switched On and Off
IRAS ID
351327
Contact name
Marie Krueger
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
Dystonia and tremor are movement disorders where muscles contract involuntarily, causing spasms in the case of dystonia, or unwanted rhythmic movements in the case of tremor. Laryngeal dystonia (LD) and vocal tremor (VT) are forms of focal dystonia and tremor, respectively, where the voice box (larynx) is affected. LD and VT are severely disabling neurological conditions that affect patients’ work and social lives by preventing the production of normal speech. Neither condition currently has a cure.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is an established treatment that improves symptoms and quality of life in patients with movement disorders, including dystonia and tremor. DBS is approved by NICE and commissioned by the NHS for dystonia and tremor.
LD and VT are rare conditions. Evidence on the efficacy of DBS for LD and VT in the literature is available but limited. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effectiveness of DBS for LD and VT.
Patients who have undergone DBS for LD and VT will be approached to take part in this study.
The study will be a prospective single-centre case series in patients who have already undergone DBS for LD and VT. This will provide valuable information for future LD and VT patients.
REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/LO/0509
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jul 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion