Treatment of idiopathic head drop (camptocephalia) by deep brain stimulation of the globus pallidus internus

J Neurosurg. 2009 Jun;110(6):1271-3. doi: 10.3171/2008.9.17659.

Abstract

Deep brain stimulation of the globus pallidus internus has been shown to be beneficial in a small number of patients suffering from axial dystonias. However, it has not yet been reported as an effective treatment for the alleviation of idiopathic head drop. The authors describe a 49-year-old woman with idiopathic cervical dystonia (camptocephalia) who was unable to raise her head > 30 degrees when standing or sitting; her symptoms would abate when lying down. This disabling neurological condition was treated successfully with bilateral chronic electrical stimulation of the globus pallidus internus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Deep Brain Stimulation*
  • Female
  • Globus Pallidus*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Torticollis / diagnosis
  • Torticollis / etiology
  • Torticollis / therapy*