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The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of various types of intractable head and facial pains. Seven patients underwent the insertion of DBS electrodes into the periventricular/periaqueductal grey region and/or the ventroposteromedial nucleus of the thalamus. We have shown statistically significant improvement in pain scores (visual analogue and McGill's) as well as health-related quality of life (SF-36v2) following surgery. There is wide variability in patient outcomes but, overall, DBS can be an effective treatment. Our results are compared with the published literature and electrode position for effective analgesia is discussed.

Original publication

DOI

10.1111/j.1468-2982.2005.01068.x

Type

Journal article

Journal

Cephalalgia

Publication Date

05/2006

Volume

26

Pages

561 - 567

Keywords

Adult, Deep Brain Stimulation, Electrodes, Implanted, Female, Headache, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Neuralgia, Pain Measurement, Quality of Life, Surgical Wound Infection