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Updated: Aug 21, 2026

Intra-Operative Behavioral Tasks in Awake Humans Undergoing Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery
Published on: January 6, 2011
Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus reduces antiparkinsonian medication costs
P David Charles1, Bimal B Padaliya, William J Newman
1The Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2100 Pierce Avenue, Suite 352 MCS, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37212-3375, USA. p.david.charles@vanderbilt.edu
Abstract:
This study reports a retrospective analysis of 16 patients to determine changes in medication costs associated with deep brain stimulation of the bilateral subthalamic nucleus (DBS B-STN). Antiparkinsonian medication (APMED) costs were evaluated pre- and post-operatively at 1 and 2 years, based on prescribed dosages. After treatment with DBS, patients experienced a 32% reduction in APMED costs after 1 year and a 39% reduction after 2 years. Hypothetical projections of total potential savings are presented, accounting for increasingly complex medication regimens and medication cost inflation. DBS patients may experience a significant long-term reduction in the cost of their pharmacologic treatment.

