Sedation with α2 Agonist Dexmedetomidine During Unilateral Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation: A Preliminary Report

Objective The α 2 agonist dexmedetomidine (DEX) is an anesthetic agent that can provide sedation and analgesia without respiratory depression or changes in neuronal activity during microrecordings. The aim of our study was to confirm the efficacy and safety of anesthesia with DEX for unilateral deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in patients with Parkinson disease. Methods In 2013 and 2014, a series of 11 consecutive patients received continuous low-dose DEX infusion during unilateral deep brain stimulation of the STN. Intraoperative microrecordings, stimulation results, and patient reaction times in executing verbal and motor tasks were retrospectively analyzed. Functional outcomes were evaluated by comparing preoperative and 1-year postoperative Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III scores. Results Typical activity of the STN was recorded in all patients, and the delay in the execution of both motor and verbal tasks was ≤2 seconds. No hemorrhagic complications occurred, and no postoperative side effects were observed. The mean percentage of Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III improvement at last follow-up was 39.01% (range, 23.70%–55.60%). The mean percentage of levodopa equivalent dose reduction was 45.86% (range, 21.50%–65.70%). Conclusions The results of our study confirm that the use of DEX in managing patients with Parkinson disease during unilateral deep brain stimulation of the STN is safe and effective and can be considered a promising option for sedation during this type of procedure.