SEEG-Guided DBS for Schizophrenia

This clinical trial aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of SEEG-guided target screening combined with individualized deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treatment-refractory schizophrenia. The study first employs Stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) electrodes as the core tool to establish a personalized, minimally invasive neuromodulation surgical framework. After SEEG electrode implantation, researchers will collect and analyze high-spatiotemporal-resolution electrophysiological data during both resting-state and task-state conditions, as well as identify characteristic electrophysiological biomarkers that correlate with clinical symptoms. Secondly, electrical stimulation is delivered through the SEEG contacts to functionally verify candidate targets in different brain regions. By stimulating specific targets and observing immediate symptomatic or physiological responses, we validate the effects on neural circuits and confirm their functional relevance prior to any permanent intervention. For targets that show preliminary efficacy, we further apply externalized chronic stimulation to continuously monitor symptom improvement and potential adverse effects. After determine the optimal targets and the intervention is confirmed to be both effective and safe, we implant a permanent brain pacemaker (DBS device). During the efficacy follow-up phase, we employ a randomized crossover design, which is then followed by an open-label period. These two stages enable thorough assessment of clinical efficacy. Meanwhile, we also collect multidimensional data (clinical symptoms, cognition, and neuroimaging) to explore the circuit mechanisms of stimulation.