Object: Pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a treatment option for those with early-onset dystonia. However, there are limited data on long-term outcome and treatment complications. The authors report on the short- and long-term effects of pallidal DBS in a cohort of patients with early-onset dystonia.
Methods: Fourteen consecutive pediatric patients with early-onset dystonia were systematically evaluated and treated. The duration of follow-up ranged from 16 to 84 months.
Results: There were no immediate postoperative complications. At last follow-up, 12 of the 14 patients displayed a significant decline in the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale motor subscale score, with an average decrease of 62% ± 8.4%. The most common hardware complication was lead fracture (14.3%).
Conclusions: These data provide further evidence that DBS is a safe and effective treatment for those with earlyonset dystonia.