Is deep brain stimulation (DBS) a safe and effective treatment for adults with dystonia? - A Cochrane Review summary with commentary.

BACKGROUND

Dystonia is the third common motor disorder; deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been reported as beneficial in selected dystonia patients.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effects of DBS in adults with dystonia.

METHODS

Cochrane Review conducted by Rodrigues et al. searching for RCTs with a parallel design, comparing DBS versus placebo, sham intervention, or best medical/surgical treatment was summarized and discussed from a rehabilitation perspective.

RESULTS

Only two RCTs, at high risk of bias, and comparing DBS with sham intervention, were selected; low quality evidence was found that DBS may improve specific symptoms and functionality in adults with cervical or segmental/generalized dystonia; no conclusion was reached on DBS safety and tolerability.

CONCLUSIONS

High quality studies are needed to verify DBS effects in dystonia; more types of dystonia and other control interventions also need to be addressed.