Deep Brain Stimulation for Primary Generalized Dystonia

Few long-term data exist regarding the safety and effectiveness of pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the treatment of primary generalized dystonia. To learn more, researchers retrospectively analyzed data from 30 consecutive patients with medication-refractory primary generalized dystonia who were treated by the same neurosurgeon and neurologist. All patients had at least 2 years of follow-up; the longest follow-up was 8 years (for 1 patient). DBS programming parameters (discharge frequency, pulse width, and voltage) were adjusted methodically to achieve the best possible clinical outcome.

All 30 patients demonstrated significant improvement in motor function, as measured by the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale. No patient ex…