A Comprehensive Review of the use of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in Treatment of Psychiatric and Headache Disorders
Murat Altinay, MD, Emad Estemalik, MD, Donald A. Malone, Jr, MD
Medscape Medical News
Headache. 2015;55(2):345-350.
Abstract
Background Neurostimulation as a treatment option for refractory neuropsychiatric disorders has been increasingly utilized in recent years. For patients with such refractory disorders who have often failed to respond to various medical interventions, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a promising treatment modality. DBS is a reversible and adjustable form of brain stimulation (also known as functional neurosurgery) in which desired brain structures (or circuits) are given focal electric stimulation via electrodes that are implanted in the brain tissue during a surgical procedure. It has been utilized among various psychiatric and neurological illnesses, in particular headache disorders.
This article reviews the most relevant data regarding DBS for psychiatric and primary headache disorders.
Conclusion
Current data support DBS as a promising treatment option for neuropsychiatric disorders that do not respond to conventional treatments; however, it is clear that more research and patient volume is needed to demonstrate its efficacy in treating these conditions. The use of functional imaging to understand the pathophysiology of these disorders has been crucial for the utilization of DBS.
Due to the length of this 10 page article, a PDF
copy of the complete article is attached to this post for download / viewing / printing, for your convenience.
Murat Altinay, MD, Emad Estemalik, MD, Donald A. Malone, Jr, MD
Medscape Medical News
Headache. 2015;55(2):345-350.
Abstract
Background Neurostimulation as a treatment option for refractory neuropsychiatric disorders has been increasingly utilized in recent years. For patients with such refractory disorders who have often failed to respond to various medical interventions, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a promising treatment modality. DBS is a reversible and adjustable form of brain stimulation (also known as functional neurosurgery) in which desired brain structures (or circuits) are given focal electric stimulation via electrodes that are implanted in the brain tissue during a surgical procedure. It has been utilized among various psychiatric and neurological illnesses, in particular headache disorders.
This article reviews the most relevant data regarding DBS for psychiatric and primary headache disorders.
Conclusion
Current data support DBS as a promising treatment option for neuropsychiatric disorders that do not respond to conventional treatments; however, it is clear that more research and patient volume is needed to demonstrate its efficacy in treating these conditions. The use of functional imaging to understand the pathophysiology of these disorders has been crucial for the utilization of DBS.
Due to the length of this 10 page article, a PDF
copy of the complete article is attached to this post for download / viewing / printing, for your convenience.
