Targeting fiber tracts in deep brain stimulation: optimal contact configurations

Abstract: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) effectively alleviates symptoms of various neurological and mental disorders by delivering targeted electrical stimulation through an implanted lead. This study explores the use of fiber tracts and "sweet streamlines" over traditionally used STN subdivisions as targets in an image-guided DBS programming algorithm. Although applicable to various disorders treated with DBS, the procedure and results are demonstrated for a single Parkinson's Disease patient. The findings suggest that targeting tracts or streamlines may improve the predictive power of DBS programming, thereby providing an opportunity to enhance the clinical workflow for parameter tuning.