Functional Movement Disorders and Deep Brain Stimulation: A Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Functional movement disorders (FMDs) can complicate deep brain stimulation (DBS) treatment.
• Patients undergoing DBS may present with or develop FMDs, impacting surgical decisions and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the complex relationship between FMDs and DBS.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and implications of FMDs in DBS candidates and recipients.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review.
• It synthesizes current understanding of FMDs in the context of DBS.

Main Results:

• Unrecognized FMDs in DBS candidates often manifest as functional dystonia.
• FMDs developing after DBS typically present as functional tremor.
• Comorbid FMDs present significant challenges for surgical candidacy and management.

Conclusions:

• FMDs in DBS patients are frequently underdiagnosed and critically impact surgical success.
• Further investigation into risk factors for post-DBS FMDs and optimal management strategies for comorbid cases is essential.