Basic Tips: How Do I Start Programming Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson Disease Patients?

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has become an integral component of Parkinson disease treatment. Programming a DBS device is a time-consuming process and requires a highly trained specialist to obtain optimal results. During the last few years, we have witnessed a rapid technological advance of DBS systems, making the programming process even more complex and emphasizing the need for a structured approach. In this manuscript and the attached videos, we will demonstrate a step-by-step programming approach for DBS targeting the subthalamus and the globus pallidus pars Interna. In doing so we will show the main features and differences of the three main systems available on the market, including the newest ones able to record braingenerated local field potentials for clinical applications.