Evaluation of Quantitative Measurement Techniques for Head Tremor With Thalamic Deep Brain Stimulation.

Background: Ventralis intermedius thalamic deep brain stimulation (VIM DBS) has shown to be safe and effective for medically refractory essential tremor (ET). We evaluate the use of quantitative tremor measurement methods for head tremor in ET using a "smart" hat and a smartphone application.

Methods: We enrolled 13 ET patients who previously underwent VIM DBS.

The Impact of Spinal Cord Stimulation on Sleep Patterns.

Background: Studies of chronic pain show sleep disturbances to be a prevalent symptom in 50-88% of patients and studies show improved pain to correspond with improved sleep. The impact of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) on sleep in failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, and neuropathic pain patients has not been studied prospectively.

Objectives: We prospectively assess the impact of SCS on sleep quality using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS).

The Impact of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation on Disability and Depression.

Background: Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) of the named nerves of the head has been shown to be effective in reducing pain levels in patients with chronic pain refractory to other treatments. However, the impact of cranial PNS on depression and disability has not been well documented.

Objectives: We prospectively examine the impact of PNS on quality of life via validated survey scores which assess symptoms of depression and daily functional capacities within patients.

A Prospective Study of the Intra- and Postoperative Efficacy of Intraoperative Neuromonitoring in Spinal Cord Stimulation.

Background: Accurate lead placement is critical for spinal cord stimulation (SCS) efficacy. The traditional gold standard of awake placement is often technically difficult. While there is retrospective evidence supporting the use of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IOM) as an alternative, a prospective assessment has not yet been performed.

Predictors of Spinal Cord Stimulation Success.

Introduction: As many as 30% of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) patients fail to obtain long-term pain coverage, even with the strictest parameters of a successful trial, unremarkable psychological assessment, and ideal placement of the permanent device. Why these patients either never receive adequate benefit or lose benefit remains elusive.

Methods: We perform a retrospective review of our prospective database of SCS patients undergoing surgery for routine indications.

The Influence of Bilateral Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation on Impulsivity and Prepulse Inhibition in Parkinson's Disease Patients.

Background: At least 14% of Parkinson disease (PD) patients develop impulse control disorders (ICDs). The pathophysiology behind these behaviors and the impact of deep brain stimulation in a real-life setting remain unclear.

Objectives: We prospectively examined the impact of bilateral subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) on ICDs in PD patients, as well as the relationship between impaired sensorimotor gaiting and impulsivity.