The RE-CONNECT study is an early feasibility study to establish the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of two central thalamic deep brain stimulation targets in patients with chronic disorders of consciousness.
Central nervous system injury of any etiology (e.g., cardiac arrest, traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, cerebral hemorrhage, encephalitis) that occurred at least 3 months prior to the eligibility phone call
The participant does not exhibit either of the following behaviors every day: meaningful interaction (defined as intelligible speech and ability to follow verbal commands) or functional object use
A CRS-R based diagnosis of DoC; either Unresponsive Wakefulness Syndrome (UWS) or Minimally Conscious State (MCS- or +).
The participant must have a documented health care proxy or court-appointed guardian
- Pregnant
Contraindication to brain MRI
Due to transportation requirements, participants whose primary residence (Skilled Nursing Facility, Long Term Acute Care, or home) is outside the Greater Boston metropolitan area
Pre-existing psychiatric, neurological or medical condition that makes the patient, in the opinion of the study team, a poor surgical candidate (e.g., neurodegenerative disorder, significant cardiopulmonary disorder, need for chronic anticoagulation)
Samuel Snider, MD
Lead sponsor
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Sponsor institution