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Updated: Aug 25, 2026
Subcutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Field Stimulation for Refractory Facial Pain
Published on: May 10, 2017
Facial expression recognition and subthalamic nucleus stimulation
U Schroeder1, A Kuehler, A Hennenlotter
1Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Möhlstrasse 28, D-81675 Munich, Germany.
Background:
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) improves motor signs in Parkinson's disease. However, clinical studies suggest that DBS of the STN may also affect cognitive and emotional functions.
Objective:
To study the impact of STN stimulation in Parkinson's disease on perception of facial expressions.
Results:
There was a selective reduction in recognition of angry faces, but not other expressions, during STN stimulation.
Conclusions:
The findings may have important implications for social adjustment in these patients.
