Brain stimulation surgery for severe obsessive-compulsive disorder

Plain-English translation of NCT05623306 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated May 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · 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.

What is this trial?

This study tests a surgical procedure called deep brain stimulation (DBS) for people with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that hasn't improved with medications and therapy. Surgeons will place a thin electrode in your brain to deliver mild electrical stimulation, which may help reduce OCD symptoms. The research team will map your brain carefully before surgery to find the best location for the electrode.

Many people with severe OCD don't get better with standard treatments like medications and therapy. This trial explores whether brain stimulation can help those who have tried multiple treatments without success.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 22 and 75 years old
you have had severe OCD for more than five years
you have tried at least two different OCD medications at high doses without adequate improvement
you have tried medication combinations and cognitive behavioral therapy without adequate relief
you can commit to staying on your current psychiatric medications at the same dose throughout the study
you live within six hours of a study site and can attend regular study visits

You likely don't qualify if…

your OCD symptoms are better explained by another mental health condition
your OCD symptoms are caused by a substance, medication, or another medical condition
you are planning to start new exposure and response prevention therapy during the study
you are unable or unwilling to keep your psychiatric medications stable during the trial
you have plans to relocate away from the study site during the study period

What participation looks like

The study has three main stages. First, you'll undergo detailed brain mapping using specialized electrodes to identify the best location for treatment. Next, you'll have surgery to place the permanent stimulation device in your brain. Finally, you'll enter a 12-week randomized phase where the device is either turned on or off (you won't know which), followed by another 12 weeks where it switches to the opposite state, and then 6 months with the device continuously on. Throughout, you'll have regular visits with psychiatrists and psychologists to monitor your symptoms and well-being.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 5, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

United States

Stanford University, Stanford, California

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania