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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
Microelectrode Guided Implantation of Electrodes into the Subthalamic Nucleus of Rats for Long-term Deep Brain Stimulation
Published on: October 2, 2015
[Deep-brain stimulation of the internal pallidum in multiple system atrophy]
V Lambrecq1, E Krim, W Meissner
1Département de neurologie, groupe hospitalier sud, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.
Introduction:
The experience with deep-brain stimulation (DBS) in multiple-system atrophy (MSA) is sparse and generally disappointing. DBS is currently not recommended in MSA and its use is often related to a misdiagnosis.
Observation:
We describe the outcome of bilateral DBS of the internal pallidum in a 46-year-old woman suffering from MSA that initially resembled Parkinson's disease with prominent levodopa-induced dyskinesias. DBS of the left internal pallidum was performed in 1998 after a ten-year clinical course and improved dyskinesias. Six months later, the right side was implanted. A few months after the second surgery, the patient progressively developed signs of cerebellar and dysautonomic impairment and MSA was diagnosed.
Conclusion:
Our observation confirms the ineffectiveness of DBS of the internal pallidum in MSA and even suggests a harmful effect. DBS remains contra-indicated in atypical parkinsonism.
