Background Multiple open-label trials of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treatment-resistant
depression (TRD), including those targeting the ventral capsule/ventral striatum target, have
shown encouraging response rates. However, no randomized controlled trials of DBS for
TRD have been published. Methods Thirty patients with TRD participated in a sham-
controlled trial of DBS at the ventral capsule/ventral striatum target for TRD. Patients were
randomized to active versus sham DBS treatment in a blinded fashion for 16 weeks …