Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Mar 2005
Clinical TrialTargeting the subthalamic nucleus for deep brain stimulation: technical approach and fusion of pre- and postoperative MR images to define accuracy of lead placement.
To define the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intraoperative electrophysiological recording in targeting the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in Parkinson's disease and to determine accuracy of electrode placement. ⋯ Both direct visualisation of the STN on MRI and intraoperative electrophysiological recording are important in defining the best target. Individual variations exist in the location of the STN target. Fewer tracks were required to define STN activity on the side operated first. Our current stereotactic method of electrode placement is relatively accurate.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Mar 2005
White matter hyperintensities are related to physical disability and poor motor function.
To determine the impact of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) on physical health and cognitive function in 60-64 year old individuals residing in the community. ⋯ WMHs are common, albeit mild, in middle adult life. They are associated with physical disability, possibly through reduced speed, fine motor coordination, and muscular strength. They are also related to slowed information processing speed but not other cognitive functions.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Mar 2005
Case Reports4-aminopyridine restores visual ocular motor function in upbeat nystagmus.
The effect of the potassium channel blocker 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) on spontaneous upbeat nystagmus (UBN) was investigated with the search coil technique during fixation in different gaze positions and smooth pursuit in a patient before and after ingestion of 10 mg 4-AP. UBN was reduced from 8.6 deg/s to 2.0 deg/s by 4-AP causing subjective relief from distressing oscillopsia, and impaired upward smooth pursuit was restored (gains: before medication 0.38; after medication 0.86). In the dark, UBN was slightly stronger and not affected by 4-AP. We propose that 4-AP improved the function of cerebellar pathways that mediate gaze holding and smooth pursuit by intensifying the excitability of cerebellar Purkinje cells.