Use of Interventional MRI for the Placement of Deep Brain Stimulators for Movement Disorders
 
In this surgical technique trial, patients undergoing deep brain stimulaton have the devices implanted using real-time MR imaging in a 1.5 Tesla high-resolution MRI unit. Patients are under general anesthesia throughout the procedure.
 
Intrastriatal Infusion of AAD-AADC (adeno associated virus expressing aromatic amino acid decarboxylase) for Parkinson's Disease
 
In this investigational study, a modified viral vector expressing the gene for aromatic amino acid decarboxylase is injected stereotactically into the area of the brain (striatum) which is deficient in this enzyme. The phase I study was recently completed and a phase II trial is anticipated.
 
Instrastriatal infusion of AAV-neurturin (adeno-associated virus expressing a gene encoding a dopaminergic growth factor) for Parkinson's disease
 
In this investigational study, a modified viral vector expressing the gene for neurturin is injected stereotactically into the area of the brain (striatum) that is deficient in dopamine nerve endings. The phase II clinical trial was recently completed and a phase III trial is anticipated.
 
Basal ganglia physiology in humans undergoing surgery for movement disorders
 
In this study, electrical recordings made in the operating room to confirm correct electrode replacement are analyzed later in our laboratory to better understand electrical activity in the brains of persons with movement disorders.
 
Treatment of essential tremor with a novel DBS device
 
We are testing a new deep brain stimulation device in patients with essential tremor. The device is based on constant current, a theoretical advantage over the constant voltage devices currently available.
 
Treatment of generalized dystonia with globus pallidus deep brain stimulation
 
The UCSF center for movement disorders surgery has treated over 75 dystonia patients with deep brain stimulation. In this study, we follow clinical effectiveness of DBS after implantation, to determine the outcome of this procedure in relation to dystonia type and programming settings.
 
Treatment of craniocervical dystonia with subthalamic nucleus pallidus deep brain stimulation
 
Patients with dystonia that primarily affects the neck and face can benefit from the “standard” surgery, DBS of the globus pallidus. However, DBS at an alternative surgical target, the subthalamic nucleus, may offer improved symptom control with few side effects in some patients. We are conducting a pilot trial of subthalamic stimulation in craniocervical dystonia, funded by the Benign Essential Blepharospasm Research Foundation.
 
For more information, contact the UCSF Center for the Surgical Treatment of Movement Disorders: 415.353.7500