PARKINSON'S DISEASE NEWS

30th June 2009 - New research

COMPARISON OF DBS SURGERY METHODS FOR TREATING PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Around 25% of Annals of Neurology [2009] 65 (5) : 586-595 (Okun MS, Fernandez HH, Wu SS, Kirsch-Darrow L, Bowers D, Bova F, Suelter M, Jacobson CE 4th, Wang X, Gordon CW Jr, Zeilman P, Romrell J, Martin P, Ward H, Rodriguez RL, Foote KD.) Complete abstract 

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) involves the use of electrodes that are implanted into the brain and connected to a small electrical device called a pulse generator that can be externally programmed. DBS can reduce the need for L-dopa and related drugs.  For more information go to Deep brain stimulation. The two most common sites in the brain used for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) are the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and the globus pallidus interna (GPi). This study compared the effects of the two main types of DBS. There was no difference between the two methods in physical movement on the main Parkinson's Disease score (the UPDRS). The effect on mood and intellectual function was similar for both methods. Worsening of verbal fluency was seen in STN. The deterioration in verbal fluency in the off STN DBS state was suggestive of a surgical effect rather than due to the stimulation. Adverse mood effects occurred in both types. The direction of the surgical method (either optimal, dorsal or ventral) also had effect, as subjects in both types were less happy, less energetic and more confused when stimulated ventrally. For more current news go to Parkinson's Disease News.

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Parkinson's Disease News details all significant new research, news reports, new books, and new resources concerning Parkinson's Disease and those medical disorders that often coincide with Parkinson's Disease. It is compiled from an analysis of  all newly published research, news reports, new clinical trials, all newly published books, and new web sites. A summary and analysis of the new research are provided,  as well as links to the complete abstracts and news reports.