AI Article Synopsis
- This study examined the effectiveness of a new constant-current device for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in reducing tremors and improving daily activities in patients with essential tremor (ET).
- A multicenter trial involved 127 patients, assessing the impact of unilateral and bilateral DBS on tremor scores and quality of life over one year, with significant improvements noted in motor function and mood.
- Results indicated substantial benefits from the DBS treatment, but there were also serious surgical risks, including infections and bleeding.
Article Abstract
Introduction: This study of thalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) investigated whether a novel constant-current device improves tremor and activities of daily living (ADL) in patients with essential tremor (ET).
Methods: A prospective, controlled, multicenter study was conducted at 12 academic centers. We investigated the safety and efficacy of unilateral and bilateral constant-current DBS of the ventralis intermedius (VIM) nucleus of the thalamus in patients with essential tremor whose tremor was inadequately controlled by medications. The primary outcome measure was a rater-blinded assessment of the change in the target limb tremor score in the stimulation-on versus stimulation-off state six months following surgery. Multiple secondary outcomes were assessed at one-year follow-up, including motor, mood, and quality-of-life measures.
Results: 127 patients were implanted with VIM DBS. The blinded, primary outcome variable (n = 76) revealed a mean improvement of 1.25 ± 1.26 points in the target limb tremor rating scale (TRS) score in the arm contralateral to DBS (p < 0.001). Secondary outcome variables at one year revealed significant improvements (p ≤ 0.001) in quality of life, depression symptoms, and ADL scores. Forty-seven patients had a second contralateral VIM-DBS, and this group demonstrated reduction in second-sided tremor at 180 days (p < 0.001). Serious adverse events related to the surgery included infection (n = 3), intracranial hemorrhage (n = 3), and device explantation (n = 3).
Conclusion: Unilateral and bilateral constant-current VIM DBS significantly improves upper extremity tremor, ADL, quality of life, and depression in patients with severe ET.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.parkreldis.2017.03.017 | DOI Listing |
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