Spinal Stimulation for Chronic Complete Tetraplegia (Complete TESCSv1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Non-invasive spinal cord stimulation combined with activity-based therapy in chronic complete high level spinal cord injury
IRAS ID
293670
Contact name
Margaret A Purcell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Clinical Research & Innovation - NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 4 months, 1 days
Research summary
Electrical spinal stimulation combined with activity-based therapy can improve motor and autonomic function in individuals suffering from varying degrees of paralysis. Spinal stimulation studies have included invasive implanted devices and non-invasive transcutaneous (via the skin) systems, using different combinations of spinal level targeted, stimulation current, waveform, amplitude and duration. Invasive and non-invasive systems have been demonstrated to permit chronic SCI individuals, previously considered to have complete injuries (ASIA A), to regain some degree of voluntary and autonomic function during periods of stimulation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of a novel non-invasive transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation technique combined with activity-based therapy in patients who have paralysis of their arms and legs. We will also investigate any immediate and possibly lasting effects on their sensory, motor and autonomic function. We aim to investigate the effect of the therapy on small group of individuals with chronic complete high level tetraplegia. If this therapy can cause any lasting improvements in the capacity to perform activities of daily living or autonomic function, and hand function in particular, then this may lead to a greater degree of functional independence for these individuals.
REC name
West Midlands - South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/WM/0111
Date of REC Opinion
7 Jul 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion