Effects of Neuromodulation in Laryngeal Dystonia

Launched by MGH INSTITUTE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS · Oct 22, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for people with laryngeal dystonia (LD), a condition that affects how the vocal cords work, leading to problems with voice quality and control. The goal is to see if rTMS can help improve the way the brain communicates with the muscles that control the voice, potentially reducing the muscle spasms that cause voice issues. This is important because current treatments, like Botox injections, can be uncomfortable and only work for a short time.

To participate in the trial, individuals must be between 21 and 85 years old and have a diagnosis of laryngeal dystonia. They should also be able to provide informed consent and currently experience severe symptoms despite receiving Botox. Participants will receive either the active rTMS treatment or a placebo (sham rTMS) to compare the effects. This study is currently recruiting participants, and it offers a chance to explore a new, non-invasive treatment option that may improve voice function and overall quality of life for those dealing with laryngeal dystonia.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age range is 21-85 years
• • Diagnosis of Laryngeal Dystonia (LD)
• • Subject is able to give informed consent
• • Symptoms at worst severity if receiving botulinum toxin injections
• • Subject has signed the consent form
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Other forms of dystonia
• • Vocal fold pathology or paralysis
• • Essential tremor
• • Laryngeal cancer or other neurologic conditions with medications affecting the central nervous system
• • History of laryngeal surgery
• • Adults lacking the ability to consent or complete the assessments and intervention
• • Seizure in the last 2 years
• • Contraindications to rTMS