Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease: evidence for effectiveness and limitations from 12 years' experience

Abstract

The functional state of Parkinson's disease patients with motor disabilities refractory to best medical treatment improved significantly after subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation. A dedicated multidisciplinary team building, refined protocol for patient selection and assessment, improvement of targeting methods, meticulous surgical technique, and experience in programming are the key factors contributing to the improved outcome.