Surface Brain Stimulation May Ease Parkinson's Symptoms [  etc  etc?]

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 1 (HealthDayNews) -- Movement problems caused by
Parkinson's disease can be eased through electronic stimulation of the
brain surface, says a study in the Dec. 2 issue of Neuron.

Scientists implanted electrodes on the brain surfaces of baboons with
chemically induced symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The scientists found
that low-voltage, high-frequency stimulation of the brain's motor cortex
reduced movement difficulties. There was no evidence of cell damage or
inflammation.

This form of surface brain stimulation may prove an effective
alternative to the deep-brain electrodes currently used for this kind of
treatment, the researchers concluded. Complex surgery is required to put
the deep-brain electrodes in place.

The researchers added that comparative clinical trials are needed to
determine whether the surface motor stimulation is as efficient as
direct stimulation of the deep brain regions.

More information

The U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has
more about deep brain stimulation for Parkinsons disease
(www.ninds.nih.gov ).


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