Utilization of predefined stimulation groups by essential tremor patients treated with VIM-DBS

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Essential tremor (ET) is a common neurological disorder.
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) of the thalamus is an effective treatment for ET.
• Patient controllers allow for adjustments to DBS therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the utilization and acceptance of switching between predefined stimulation groups in ET patients undergoing VIM-DBS.
• To understand patient awareness and frequency of using stimulation group switching.
• To identify factors influencing the use of stimulation group switching.

Main Methods:

• A telephone survey was conducted with 38 patients diagnosed with ET and treated with VIM-DBS.
• The survey focused on the general utilization and specific usage patterns of patient controllers and stimulation groups.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare patient demographics, specifically age, between those who switched programs and those who did not.

Main Results:

• Over half of the surveyed ET patients (55%) were aware of their ability to switch between stimulation programs.
• A significant portion of aware patients (13 of 21) regularly switched programs, primarily to manage side effects.
• No significant age difference was observed between patients who switched stimulation groups and those who did not.

Conclusions:

• A notable number of ET patients utilize the ability to switch stimulation settings to control side effects.
• All ET patients, particularly those experiencing stimulation-induced side effects, should be educated about switching between predefined stimulation groups.
• Training by specialized nurses is proposed to enhance patient confidence in managing their DBS device controllers.