Swallowing function in Parkinson's patients following Zona Incerta deep brain stimulation

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Swallowing Disorders
• Deep Brain Stimulation

Background:

• Parkinson's disease (PD) often involves motor and non-motor symptoms, including dysphagia.
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a therapeutic option for PD, but its effects on swallowing require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of caudal Zona Incerta deep brain stimulation (cZI DBS) on pharyngeal swallowing function in Parkinson's patients.
• To investigate the relationship between cZI DBS and swallowing parameters, as no prior studies exist.

Main Methods:

• Eight Parkinson's patients undergoing cZI DBS were evaluated pre- and post-operatively (6 and 12 months).
• Evaluations included fiberoptic endoscopic swallowing examinations and patient self-assessments (VAS, quality of life).
• Swallowing parameters assessed: Penetration-Aspiration Scale, Secretion Severity Scale, spillage, residue, and clearance.

Main Results:

• No significant negative effect of cZI DBS on most swallowing parameters was observed at 6 and 12 months post-surgery.
• A slight worsening of preswallow spillage was noted in the 'stimulation on' condition at 12 months.
• Patient self-assessments regarding swallowing function showed no significant changes.

Conclusions:

• cZI DBS generally does not appear to negatively influence pharyngeal swallowing function in Parkinson's patients.
• Individual responses to cZI DBS regarding swallowing function can vary.
• Further research is warranted to fully understand the nuanced effects of cZI DBS on swallowing.