EFFECTS OF SUBTHALAMIC NUCLEUS STIMULATION IN PARKINSONS-DISEASE

In Parkinson's disease, experimental studies favour a neuronal hyperac tivity of the subthalamic nucleus. We carried out a subthalamic nucleu s electrical stimulation in a patient aged 51, suffering for 8 years f rom a severe akineto-rigid form of Parkinson's disease, complicated wi th an on-off effect. Stereotaxic surgery was done under local anaesthe sia on one side. Within the theoretical target, a 130 Hz stimulation i nduced akinesia alleviation mainly on the contralateral limbs. No abno rmal movement was noticed. Then a long-term quadripolar DBS Medtronic electrode was inserted in that area. The study of the effects of chron ic stimulation is in progress to determine the best temporal and elect rical stimulation variables.