Revision Surgery of Deep Brain Stimulation Leads

Introduction: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is widely used for various movement disorders. DBS lead revisions are becoming more common as the indications and number of cases increases. Methods: Patients undergoing DBS lead revisions at a single institution were retrospectively analyzed based on diagnosis, reason for revision, where the lead was relocated, and surgical technique. Results: We reviewed 497 consecutive DBS lead placements and found that there was need for 25 DBS lead revisions with at least six months of follow-up. Loss of efficacy and development of adverse effects over time were the most common reasons for lead revision across all diagnosis. Lead malfunction was the least common. Ten patients requiring 19 DBS lead revisions that underwent their original surgery at another institution were also analyzed. Surgical technique dictated replacing with a new lead while maintaining brain position and tract with the old lead until final placement. Methods to seal exposed wire were developed. Conclusion: Surgical technique, as well as variable options are important in lead revision and can be dictated based on reason for revision. Over time patients who have had adequate relief with DBS placement may experience loss of efficacy and development of adverse effects requiring revision of the DBS lead to maintain its effects.