LONG TERM EFFECTS OF DBS ON PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Researchers assessed the long term effect of Subthalamic nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) on Parkinson's Disease. People with Parkinson's Disease were assessed before DBS and 1, 3, 5 years after DBS had begun.

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, and reduce dyskinesia. For more information go to : http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/deep_brain_stimulation/deep_brain_stimulation.htm 

As a result of DBS the quality of life improved by 58% after 3 years but gradually declined afterwards. Sleep, cognition, and emotion were mostly unchanged. After 5 years, when assessed without medication DBS improved Parkinson's Disease motor symptoms by 35%. However, after 5 years, when assessed with the simultaneous use of medication, motor symptoms were similar to those at the outset. L-dopa intake was reduced from 660mg to 310mg after 5 years. STN DBS can therefore improve Parkinson's Disease and reduce the need for L-dopa but there is a gradual decline and diminished efficacy after five years of use. 

Reference : Chinese Medical Journal [2015] 128 (18) : 2433-2438 (L.L.Jiang, J.L.Liu, X.L. Fu, W.B.Xian, J.Gu, Y.M.Liu, J.Ye, J.Chen, H.Qian, S.H.Xu, Z.Pei, L.Chen) 

Complete abstract : http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26365958

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