An exploration of non-invasive cerebellar stimulation
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An exploration of the application of non-invasive cerebellar stimulation in the neurorehabilitation of dysphagia after stroke
IRAS ID
230143
Contact name
Shaheen Hamdy
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 4 months, 7 days
Research summary
The purpose of this study is to assess if the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation over the cerebellum can improve swallowing problems after strokes. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a technique using magnets held over the head to stimulate the neurones in different regions of the brain. The cerebellum is the region of the brain at the back of the head.
Previous studies by our research group have showed that the cerebellum helps control the process of swallowing. After having a stroke there is a risk that individuals can lose the ability to swallow safely. Previous research studies have showed that this is caused by damage to areas of the brain which control swallowing. Some patients recover their ability to swallow after strokes. Our previous work has shown that patients who recover their swallowing do so because other regions of the brain that control swallowing compensate for the damage. Individuals who don’t recover their swallowing don’t show evidence of compensation. Transcranial magnetic stimulation over other regions of the brain which control swallowing has been shown to help encourage compensation and improve swallowing.
Targeting the cerebellum with transcranial magnetic stimulation is easier than targeting other swallowing regions of the brain. It also has a lower chance of side effects such as seizures. We hope that by targeting the cerebellum with transcranial magnetic stimulation, we can more safely and effectively improve swallowing after strokes.REC name
North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0232
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jun 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion