Negative outcome after neurosurgery for refractory obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Psychiatry
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Severe and refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder spectrum (OCDS) presents significant treatment challenges.
• Neurosurgery is considered a last-resort option for intractable OCDS cases.

Observation:

• This study evaluated five patients with severe and refractory OCDS who underwent neurosurgery.
• Standardized scales (Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, Overvalued Ideas Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory) were used for assessment.

Findings:

• All patients experienced initial improvement followed by relapse after neurosurgery.
• Post-surgical complications included the development of depression and suicidal ideation or attempts.

Implications:

• Neurosurgery for OCDS carries a high risk of relapse and severe psychiatric complications.
• The long-term efficacy and safety of neurosurgical interventions for OCDS require further investigation.
• Alternative or adjunctive treatments should be considered for refractory OCDS.