Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus in idiopathic Parkinson's disease

Objective To explore the effect and the operative method for Parkinson's disease(PD) by deep brain stimulation(DBS).Methods We studied 20 patients with PD in whom electrodes were implanted unilaterally or bilaterally in the subthalamic nucleus(STN) under microelectrode guidance and surgiplan system of the location. 20 were followed and evaluated for at least 6 months after surgery. Results After the electrical stimulation of the STN for 15 patients unilaterally and 5 bilaterally, the patients' scores for ADL and motor examination scores were decrease significantly respectively(P0.01). The mean dose of dopaminergic drugs was reduced. No severe permanent operative complications was found.Conclusions Electrical stimulation of the STN is safe and effective treatment for PD. The severity of many symptoms decreases by adjusting the parameter and the dose of levodapa can be reduced.