Finding new treatments for people with disabilities
Thank you for your interest in stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury
medical research at the Casa Colina Research Institute (CCRI). Casa Colina
patients and other community members who meet certain criteria may apply
to participate in our studies. The purpose of each study is to gain a
better understanding of new technologies and treatment methodologies,
with the goal of improving medical and rehabilitation outcomes. Below
are the current studies being conducted at CCRI.
Are You Tetraplegic? Are You Interested in Controlling a Computer Using Thought?
This study seeks individuals with paralysis to control a computer using
thought alone. Subjects with tetraplegia will learn to control the computer
interface with the aid of the study team.
To be eligible, you must:
live within one hour of Casa Colina and be able to attend 3-5 times a week
for at least a year (transportation available at no cost).
have electrodes implanted surgically and then removed after one year.
Electroencephalogram (EEG) Changes Related to Transcutaneous Auricular
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) in Acute Stroke Patients: a Preliminary Study
This study aims to investigate changes in electrical brain activity related
to improvements in both motor and cognitive recovery following the use
of taVNS in acute stroke patients.
To be eligible, you must:
be between 18 to 80 years old.
have first time acute cerebrovascular accident (CVA) ischemic or hemorrhagic.
have sustained the injury within the past month.
Sleep for Stroke Management and Recovery Trial (Sleep SMART)
Eligible stroke patients will try CPAP for one night. If successful, they
will be assigned to a six-month study in which one group uses CPAP with
support and the other does not use CPAP.
To be eligible, you must:
be at least 18 years old.
have experienced a recent stroke or transient ischemic attack within prior
14 days to study enrollment.
Rehabilitation to Improve Arm and Hand Function Post-Stroke
This study aims to measure the benefits of a personalized therapy program
for individuals with impaired arm or hand movements, specifically focusing
on improvements in motor skills and functional abilities.
To be eligible, you must:
be at least 18 years old.
have had an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke within 1 week to 1 month prior
to enrollment.
have hemiparesis/weakness in arm or hand.
Genetic Influences on the consciousness and functional outcome of patients
with severe brain injury
The purpose of this study is to utilize genetic biomarkers to accurately
identify patient outcomes and develop a personalized treatment to maximize
recovery following a traumatic or non-traumatic brain injury.
To be eligible, you must:
be at least 18 years old.
have a severe acquired brain injury.
have no prior history of genetic, neurological, and/or psychiatric disorder.
This study aims to enhance the safety and usability of motorized mobility
scooters. Your participation will help us gather data to achieve these
goals and publish our findings.
To be eligible, you must:
be at least 18 years old.
have the ability to follow instructions in English.
have a lower extremity impairment.
Home Use of Brain-Computer Interface in Patients with Severe Acquired Brain
Injury: A Preliminary Study
This study aims to assess the use of brain-computer interface as an effective
form of communication for patients with severe acquired brain injuries
and their caregiver/family.
To be eligible, you must:
be at least 16 years old.
have sustained a severe acquired brain injury at least 28 days before enrolling.
have language and motor difficulties impacting communication.
For more information and/or to apply to current research projects at Casa
Colina, please contact
909/596-7733, ext. 2220.
