Sustained relief after cessation of subthalamic stimulation for idiopathic dystonia: A 14-year observation

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a well-established neurosurgical technique for medically refractory dystonia, providing marked improvement in both motor function and quality of life [1]. The effects of DBS targeting the globus pallidus internus (GPi) or subthalamic nucleus (STN) appear to be persisting, and patients continue to do well several years after implantation [1]. The discontinuation of DBS is usually followed by the reoccurrence of dystonic symptoms within hours or days [2]. However, previous studies have reported sustained clinical efficacy for several days or months after GPi-DBS interruption in inherited or idiopathic dystonia [3 –5].
Source: BRAIN STIMULATION: Basic, Translational, and Clinical Research in Neuromodulation - Category: Neurology Authors: Source Type: research