Long-Term Follow-Up of Pediatric Patients with Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy and Deep Brain Stimulation

Abstract

Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been increasingly used in the management of dyskinetic cerebral palsy (DCP). Data on long-term effects and the safety profile are rare. Objectives: We assessed the efficacy and safety of pallidal DBS in pediatric patients with DCP. Methods: The STIM-CP trial was a prospective, single-arm, multicenter study in which patients from the parental trial agreed to be followed-up for up to 36 months. Assessments included motor and non-motor domains. Results: Of the 16 patients included initially, 14 (mean inclusion age 14 years) were assessed. There was a significant change in the (blinded) ratings of the total Dyskinesia Impairment Scale at 36 months. Twelve serious adverse events (possibly) related to treatment were documented. Conclusion: DBS significantly improved dyskinesia, but other outcome parameters did not change significantly. Investigations of larger homogeneous cohorts are needed to further ascertain the impact of DBS and guide treatment decisions in DCP. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.