Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Despite its efficacy in tremor-suppression, the ventral intermediate thalamic (VIM) nucleus has largely been neglected in deep brain stimulation (DBS) for tremor-dominant Parkinson's disease (tdPD). The employment of a parietal approach, however, allows stimulation of VIM and subthalamic nucleus (STN) using one trajectory only and thus constitutes a promising alternative to existing strategies. In the present study, we investigate safety and efficacy of combined lead implantation and stimulation of STN and VIM using a parietal approach. ⋯ Simultaneous DBS of VIM and STN using one trajectory is safe, yielding good control of parkinsonian tremors. Further studies, however, are necessary to determine whether a parietal trajectory affords better control over tremor symptoms than established strategies and hence justifies the potential risks associated with the alternative approach.
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Neuromodulation is a promising treatment modality for tinnitus, especially in chronic and severe cases. The auditory thalamus plays a key role in the pathophysiology of tinnitus, as it integrates and processes auditory and limbic information. ⋯ High frequency stimulation of the MGB has a direct and residual suppressing effect on tinnitus in this animal model. Low frequency stimulation of the MGB did not inhibit tinnitus.
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The use of electrical stimulation therapy to treat epilepsy is currently being studied in experimental animals and patients. Our study was designed to evaluate the effects of electrical stimulation applied in the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) on the development of pentylentetrazole-induced seizures. ⋯ These data could contribute to the characterization of the TRN in mediating the initiation and spreading of seizure activity and provide preclinical support for optimal parameters to use to obtain beneficial effects against convulsive activity.