Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in people with movement disorders other than Parkinson's disease (PD).

Authors' recommendations: In general, caution should be used in interpreting results on the effectiveness of a technology on the basis of uncontrolled studies, as is largely the case for DBS in people with movement disorders other than Parkinson's disease. However, where the natural history of the condition is well understood and consistent and marked results are obtained, some conclusions may be possible. The size of effects in the case of DBS are, in the authors opinion, unlikely to be entirely due to bias or chance and there is reasonable consistency between studies. However, these studies should be viewed as preliminary evidence, suggesting efficacy of DBS in people with essential tremor only. Effectiveness should be established against alternative treatments according to agreed inclusion criteria and cost effectiveness should be established through primary research including measurement of effects on quality of life. We found inconclusive or no evidence for the potential use of DBS in other non-PD movement disorders.

Authors' methods: Review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.wihrd.soton.ac.uk

Year Published: 2001

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England

Organisation Name: Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development

Contact Address: Pauline King. Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development, Boldrewood Medical School, Bassett Crescent East, Highfield, Southampton. SO16 7PX Tel. +44 1703 595661 Fax +44 1703 595662

Copyright: Bazian Ltd, Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development