Paediatric deep brain stimulation

Abstract

This review aimed to assess the evidence around the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for paediatric patients with severe dystonia. It aimed to answer the following questions: 1) Is paediatric DBS safe, efficacious and cost effective when compared with best supportive care?, 2) Is DBS more safe or more effective for some types of paediatric dystonia than others? Are there agreed patient selection criteria?, 3) What models of care and service delivery or access and funding mechanisms are established to deliver paediatric DBS internationally?. The available evidence is limited but the growing body of level IV evidence generally supports use of DBS for improving motor function and disability. More data is needed that looks as other aspects of patient wellbeing.