An implanted electrical stimulator improves functioning and quality of life in Parkinson's disease.

An implanted electrical stimulator improves functioning and quality of life in Parkinson's disease.
A new treatment for Parkinson's disease involves the implanting of an electrical device that can stimulate the brain on both sides. This blocks the signals that otherwise cause disabling tremor.

Researchers at the University of Kansas can now reveal the long-term effects of this treatment. They followed 34 patients fitted with the stimulator, which is not unlike a heart pacemaker, for an average of 21 months. The patients ranged in age from 35 to 76 years old. They reported an increase in quality of life of around 22 per cent (rated on a standard scale). Improvements were noted in mobility and overall functioning in everyday tasks. On a scale for assessing motor functioning, there was an improvement of 38 per cent. The results are even more impressive, given that these patients were already receiving optimal medical treatment when the device was implanted.

Source

American Academy of Neurology Meeting 31st March 2003