Thalamic Deep Brain Stimulation for Tourette Syndrome

Thalamic Deep Brain Stimulation for Tourette Syndrome: A Prospective Clinical Trial

The purpose of this study is to determine whether deep brain stimulation is effective at reducing tic frequency and severity in adults with Tourette syndrome.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 18 or older
• Diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome by DSM-IV
• Tic frequency at least one per minute at screening
• prior failure of at least two dopamine receptor or presynaptic blockers
• negative impact on quality of life

Exclusion Criteria:

• significant structural brain lesion (on imaging studies)
• significant dementia
• severe head trauma preceding onset of tics
• use of dopamine receptor blockers prior to recognition of tics
• prior implanted electrical device
• electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) within 24 months
• suicide attempt within 12 months
• significant sociopathic personality
• current or planned pregnancy