• Yi Zhan Cai, Yilong Zheng, Wei Li, Seyed Ehsan Saffari, Hwee Lan Ng, Angela Zhan, Zheyu Xu, Kay Yaw Tay, Wing Lok Au, Wai Hoe Ng, Louis Chew Seng Tan, Kai Rui Wan, and Shermyn Neo.
• Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
• Ann Acad Med Singap. 2024 Aug 20; 53 (8): 481489481-489.

IntroductionSubthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) is a proven treatment modality for Parkinson's disease (PD), reducing dyskinesia and time spent in the "OFF" state. This study evaluates the long-term outcomes of STN-DBS in PD patients up to 10 years post-surgery in Singapore.MethodWe conducted a retrospective review of Movement Disorders Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) scores, activities of daily living (ADLs), disease milestones, dopaminergic drug prescriptions, and adverse events in patients before and after STN-DBS surgery.ResultsA total of 94 PD patients who underwent bilateral STN-DBS were included. STN-DBS reduced time in the "OFF" state by 36.9% at 1 year (P=0.034) and 40.9% at 5 years (P=0.006). Time with dyskinesia did not significantly change. Levodopa equivalent daily dose was reduced by 35.1% by 5 years (P<0.001). MDS-UPDRS-II and III scores increased from 5 years post-DBS by 40.5% and 35.4%, respectively. Independence in ADLs decreased, though not significantly. The prevalence of frequent falls increased at 5 years. Surgery- and device-related adverse events were uncommon and generally mild.ConclusionSTN-DBS provides sustained relief from motor complications and reduced medication requirements in PD patients in Singapore. This study highlights STN-DBS as an effective treatment option, significantly enhancing the quality of life for those with PD.

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