Deep Brain Stimulation for Methamphetamine Use Disorder: Perioperative Neuropsychiatric and Other Medical...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Addiction Medicine
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Substance use disorders, particularly methamphetamine use disorder, are a significant public health concern with high morbidity and mortality.
• Current evidence-based treatments for methamphetamine use disorder have limitations, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS), a neuromodulation technique, has demonstrated efficacy in movement disorders and is being explored for substance use disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the systemic effects and medical comorbid conditions associated with methamphetamine use.
• To guide clinicians in the perioperative care of patients with methamphetamine use disorder undergoing DBS surgery.
• To highlight the importance of preoperative planning and perioperative management for successful DBS outcomes.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes current literature on the systemic effects of methamphetamine and associated medical comorbidities.
• Information is presented organized by organ system to detail potential perioperative challenges.
• The review focuses on implications for neurosurgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare providers involved in patient care.

Main Results:

• Methamphetamine intoxication can lead to diverse systemic abnormalities and medical comorbidities across multiple organ systems.
• These systemic effects and comorbidities pose significant challenges during the perioperative period for patients undergoing DBS.
• Successful surgical intervention with DBS is achievable with meticulous preoperative assessment and management.

Conclusions:

• A thorough understanding of methamphetamine's systemic impact and related conditions is critical for managing patients undergoing DBS.
• Proactive identification and management of perioperative complications can significantly improve patient outcomes.
• DBS represents a potential advanced treatment modality for methamphetamine use disorder, requiring specialized perioperative care strategies.