Plain-English translation of NCT06529380 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 trial is testing deep brain stimulation (DBS), a surgically implanted device that delivers gentle electrical pulses to a specific part of the brain involved in reward and motivation. The study aims to see whether turning this device on and off can help reduce severe self-injury in children and teenagers with autism who have not responded well to other treatments.
Some children with autism engage in serious, repetitive self-injury that doesn't improve with medications or behavioral therapies. This trial exists to find out whether this type of brain stimulation could offer a new treatment option for those with the most severe cases.
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If you join, you would have brain surgery to implant the DBS device. After a 4-week recovery period, you'll be randomly assigned to either have the device turned on for 3 months then off for 3 months, or off first then on—with a 2-week break between each phase. During each phase, researchers will assess your self-injury behavior and other symptoms. The whole study lasts about 2 years, with regular visits to the hospital for check-ups and assessments.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 23, 2026 · Not medical advice
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