Functional outcomes after gamma knife thalamotomy for essential tremor and MS-related tremor

Abstract

Twelve patients with a median age of 75 years underwent gamma knife thalamotomy for essential tremor (ET) (n = 9) or MS-related tremor (n = 3). All 11 evaluable patients noted improvement in action tremor. Six of eight ET patients had complete tremor arrest, and the violent action tremor in all three patients with MS was improved. One patient developed transient arm weakness. Stereotactic radiosurgery for ET and MS-related tremor is safe and effective for patients who may be poor candidates for other procedures.