PROJECT SUMMARY:
Deep brain stimulation involves the implantation of electrodes into deep brain structures with millimetre precision. It has led to a significant improvement in the lives of patients with a range of neurological disorders including Parkinson’s Disease.
Dystonia is a poorly understood medical condition that leads to sustained muscle contraction. This condition can be extremely disabling for patients, who persistently maintain abnormal posture. There are medications available that aim to reduce muscle contraction, but no cure is available.
Deep brain stimulation has proven to be successful for some people with Dystonia and can lead a significant improvement in their quality of life.
We are investigating methods of delivering deep brain stimulation from within a blood vessel in the brain. This method is analogous to the method used to deposit stents to treat heart attacks. We enter the brain via a blood vessel in the groin, with no invasive brain operation, or craniotomy, necessary.
We hope to be able to one day expand the use of deep brain stimulation using a safer and cheaper method, that will enable a broader range of patients access to this promising technology.
The Brain Foundation is the largest, independent funder of brain and spinal injury research in Australia. We believe research is the pathway to recovery.