Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nuclei in Parkinson's disease: Case report and MRI/CT fusion review

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) has been used as a surgical treatment for Parkinson's disease. Multiple benefits have also been identified including a decreased medication dosing and motor symptoms improvements. Complications such as seizures, infection, or bleeding could appear in a very low rate of patients, less than 2%. This case report presented a 70-year-old man with all clinical features associated with Parkinson's disease. Due to disabling motor fluctuation and insufficient response to pharmacological therapy, bilateral Deep Brain Stimulation was inserted in the subthalamic nuclei (STN). Preoperative planification with magnetic resonance (MRI) fused with stereotactic computed tomography (CT) optimize target localization, trajectory and enhance accuracy of subthalamic nucleus lead implantation. Postoperative tremors, bradykinesia and rigidity were significantly reduced, with improvement in gait stability and overall motor performance. Literature review was carried out using digital databases PubMed, Scopus and Web Of Science. Deep Brain Stimulation used as a treatment for Parkinson's disease helps patients improve their quality of life. However, it's important to know that the procedure does not cure the disease itself, but it helps to manage unpleasant clinical manifestations. Innovative surgical techniques and new findings about Parkinson's disease may minimize risks and complications while increasing outcomes.