Bilateral deep brain stimulation of the globus pallidus internus in tardive dystonia

Abstract

Tardive dystonia is a disabling movement disorder as a consequence of exposure to neuroleptic drugs. We followed 6 patients with medically refractory tardive dystonia treated by bilateral globus pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) for 21 +/- 18 months. At last follow-up, the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) motor score improved by 86% +/- 14%, and the BFMDRS disability score improved by 80% +/- 12%. Bilateral GPi-DBS is a beneficial therapeutic option for the long-term relief of tardive dystonia.