Background: Since 2013, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been reimbursed in the Netherlands as a proven effective treatment for treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Nevertheless, DBS is still rarely applied, and a national Dutch treatment protocol is lacking.
Aim: To prepare a nationwide multidisciplinary treatment protocol for the application of DBS in the treatment of treatment-resistant OCD.
Method: Formulation of recommendations for the execution and application of DBS in OCD regarding indication, implantation, optimization of stimulation parameters, and consolidation of long-term effects, based on literature research and consensus among experts represented in the multidisciplinary Dutch DBS in Psychiatry working group.
Results: Following indication, DBS electrodes are bilaterally implanted in white matter tracts in the anterior limb of the internal capsule. In previously highly treatment-resistant patients with severe OCD, this leads to an average 66% response rate after optimization of stimulation parameters. Placebo-controlled effects are significant (Hedges’ g = 0.9). The main reported side effects are transient hypomanic symptoms, fatigue, and subjective cognitive complaints. Perioperative complications are rare. Positive effects remain stable during years of follow-up. DBS is cost-effective and leads to increased quality of life and functional recovery. Nevertheless, DBS is applied infrequently relative to the estimated number of patients with treatment-resistant OCD.
Conclusion: By adhering to the described recommendations regarding indication, implantation, optimization, and consolidation, DBS is an effective and safe treatment option for treatment-resistant OCD. A nationwide multidisciplinary treatment protocol can contribute to the implementation of DBS with more and earlier referrals, allowing more patients to benefit from this treatment more quickly.