Plain-English translation of NCT05245643 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing a neurosurgical procedure called deep brain stimulation (DBS) for people with severe anorexia nervosa that has not responded to standard treatments like hospitalization, therapy, and medications. The procedure involves surgically placing electrodes in a specific part of the brain involved in food motivation and appetite. Researchers will monitor whether this treatment helps patients stabilize their weight and improve their quality of life over 12 months.
Anorexia nervosa is one of the deadliest psychiatric conditions, and some people do not get better despite years of intensive treatment with hospitalization and therapy. This trial exists because traditional approaches sometimes fail for people with the most severe, long-lasting cases, and researchers believe targeting brain structures related to food motivation might offer a new hope for these patients.
If you qualify, you will have 2 weeks to think about joining. You will then meet with a neurosurgeon and psychiatrist together to discuss the procedure. After at least 2 weeks of preparation, you will have an MRI scan and other assessments. You will be admitted to the hospital for about one week for the surgery to implant the stimulation device. After discharge, the device will be turned on, and you will have follow-up visits with your psychiatrist once a month and the neurosurgeon once every 2 months for the next 12 months. You will also have two brain-function tests during this follow-up period. The entire study lasts about 12 months from surgery to final visit.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 2, 2026 · Not medical advice
France