Deep brain stimulation for the treatment of Parkinson's disease: the experience of the Neurosurgical Department in Monza

• Published in: Neurological sciences Vol. 24 Suppl 1; pp. S43 - s44
• Main Authors: Landi, A, Parolin, M, Piolti, R, Antonini, A, Grimaldi, M, Crespi, M, Iurlaro, S, Aliprandi, A, Pezzoli, G, Ferrarese, C, Gaini, S M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Italy Springer Nature B.V 01.05.2003
• Subjects: Clinical Trials as Topic - methods; Deep brain stimulation; Electric Stimulation Therapy - methods; Electrodes, Implanted; Humans; Italy; Neurology; Neurosciences; Parkinson Disease - therapy; Patient Selection; Postoperative Care; Subthalamic Nucleus - physiopathology; Subthalamic Nucleus - surgery; Treatment Outcome; Italy
• ISSN: 1590-1874; 1590-3478
• DOI: 10.1007/s100720300039

deep brain stimulation is a widely accepted surgical therapy for the symptomatic treatment of advanced parkinson's disease; high frequency chronic stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus proved its efficacy to control the major motor symptoms. In the neurosurgical department of Monza we treated 72 parkinsonian patients (November 1998-January 2003). One year follow-up results are: decrease of tremor 90%, hypertonous 56%, bradykinesia 70%, voice impairment amelioration 30%, mean total daily L-dopa intake reduced 58%. Freezing and balance did not ameliorate, some voice impairment and psychic derangement have been observed. Major surgical complications were: haemorrage (1 case - transient hemiparesis), infections (2 cases), pulmonary embolisation (1 case). To optimise the surgical results, careful clinical and instrumental selection of the patients are mandatory before surgery.