Article

Purpose. To determine the effects of unilateral and bilateral subthalamic nucleus
(STN) stimulation on gait and mobility in persons with Parkinson disease (PD).
Method. We examined eight individuals with advanced PD who underwent staged
stimulator implantation surgeries. Gait and mobility were assessed in the
medication-on state with a variety of clinical and laboratory measures (Unified
Parkinson Disease Rating Scale items, Timed Up and Go Test, gait speed) at three
time points: prior to surgery, after the first surgery (unilateral stimulation)
and after the second surgery (bilateral stimulation). Results. Despite overall
improvements in motor function and reduction of dyskinesia, there were no
significant group effects of unilateral or bilateral stimulation on gait and
mobility compared to pre-surgical function. However, there were clinically
meaningful changes, both improvements and declines, at the individual level.
Conclusions. Because of the consequences of gait deficits and mobility
limitations for people with PD, future research should examine the effects of STN
stimulation on gait in the medication-on state using sensitive and specific
measures such as gait speed. Accurate assessment of gait changes is necessary to
improve the evaluation of STN effects and the prediction of individuals in need
of rehabilitation services to manage gait and mobility deficits.

Langue : ANGLAIS