Pallidal versus Subthalamic Deep-Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Randomized studies have shown that treatment with deep-brain stimulation, which involves the surgical implantation of a device that sends electrical impulses to specific parts of the brain, is superior to medical therapy for improving motor function and quality of life for patients with advanced Parkinson's disease.1,2 The globus pallidus interna and the subthalamic nucleus are both accepted targets for deep-brain stimulation. The subthalamic nucleus is used more commonly as the target, despite the lack of evidence showing that neurostimulation of this target provides a better outcome. Our multicenter, randomized, blinded trial, called the Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Program (CSP) . . .