Preserved cognition after deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the subthalamic area for Parkinson's disease: a case report

At present, subthalamic nucleus (STN) stimulation is the preferred procedure for the amelioration of motor symptoms in medication refractory Parkinson's disease. Results are however impaired by negative impacts on mood, cognition, incentive, and social judgment. Alternative targets are therefore explored. We describe a case with stimulation of subthalamic fibre tracts that showed clear improvement of cognitive and social abilities. Avoiding the STN may be advantageous in progressive Parkinson's disease to avoid non-motor complications and enhance quality of life.