Sweet spot mapping and structural connectivity in subthalamic stimulation: predicting neuropsychiatric outcomes in Parkinson’s disease

STN-DBS markedly improves motor symptoms and quality of life in PD patients while also positively impacting anxiety and depressive symptoms. The ventral STN is likely the optimal stimulation target for ameliorating anxiety and depressive symptoms. The therapeutic effects of STN-DBS electrodes may promote postoperative improvements in anxiety and depression by modulating fiber tracts connected to prefrontal regions. Future research should leverage connectome mapping and isolated fiber tracts to refine electrode placement, using directional leads to target specific STN subregions for improved symptom management.