Research in the area of Tourette syndrome reported from University Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery
2007 NOV 19 -- Scientists discuss in 'Prospective randomized double-blind trial of bilateral thalamic deep brain stimulation in adults with Tourette syndrome' new findings in Tourette syndrome. "The severity of Tourette syndrome (TS) typically peaks just before adolescence and diminishes afterward. In some patients, however, TS progresses into adulthood, and proves to be medically refractory," investigators in the United States report. "The authors conducted a prospective double-blind crossover trial of bilateral thalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) in five adults with TS Bilateral thalamic electrodes were implanted. An independent programmer established optimal stimulator settings in a single session. Subjective and objective results were assessed in a double-blind randomized manner for 4 weeks, with each week spent in one of four states of unilateral or bilateral stimulation. Results were similarly assessed 3 months after unblinded bilateral stimulator activation while repeated open programming sessions were permitted In the randomized phase of the trial, a statistically significant (p <0.03, Friedman exact test) reduction in the modified Rush Video-Based Rating Scale score (primary outcome measure) was identified in the bilateral on state. Improvement was noted in motor and sonic tic counts as well as on the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale and TS Symptom List scores (secondary outcome measures). Benefit was persistent after 3 months of open stimulator programming. Quality of life indices were also improved," wrote R.J. Maciunas and colleagues, University Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery. The researchers concluded: "Three of five patients had marked improvement according to all primary and secondary outcome measures Bilateral thalamic DBS appears to reduce tic frequency and severity in some patients with TS who have exhausted other available means of treatment." Maciunas and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Neurosurgery (Prospective randomized double-blind trial of bilateral thalamic deep brain stimulation in adults with Tourette syndrome. Journal of Neurosurgery, 2007;107(5):1004-14). For additional information, contact R.J. Maciunas, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Dept. of Neurosurgery, Neurological Institute, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 USA.. The publisher of the Journal of Neurosurgery can be contacted at: American Association Neurological Surgeons, University Virginia, 1224 West Main St., Ste. 450, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA. Keywords: United States, Central Nervous System Disease, Neurosurgery, Tourette Syndrome. This article was prepared by Pain & Central Nervous System Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2007, Pain & Central Nervous System Week via NewsRx.com.
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