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Stuttering induced by thalamic deep brain stimulation for dystonia
Niels Allert1, Daniela Kelm, Christian Blahak
1Neurological Rehabilitation Center Godeshoehe, Waldstrasse 2-10, 53177 Bonn, Germany. allert@godeshoehe.de
Journal of Neural Transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996)
|March 11, 2010
Summary
Deep brain stimulation for dystonia can reversibly cause stuttering. Optimizing stimulation parameters resolved speech issues while effectively treating dystonic symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a therapeutic option for movement disorders.
- The ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus (Vim) is a common target for DBS, particularly for tremor control.
- Dystonia is a complex neurological condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing Vim DBS for dystonia developed stuttering as an adverse effect.
- The onset of stuttering occurred at specific, suboptimal stimulation parameters.
- This represents the first reported instance of stuttering linked to Vim DBS.
Findings:
- Adjusting DBS stimulation parameters led to the complete resolution of stuttering.
- Optimized stimulation parameters also provided effective control of the patient's dystonic motor symptoms.
- The study highlights the delicate balance between therapeutic efficacy and potential side effects in DBS.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of precise parameter tuning in Vim DBS to mitigate adverse effects.
- It suggests a potential link between thalamic stimulation and speech fluency, warranting further investigation.
- Understanding these neurophysiological interactions can refine DBS protocols for movement disorders and speech disturbances.
