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---------- Forwarded message ---------- Date: Wed, 27 Dec 95 14:35:00 P From: Andy L. Blatz <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Re: Thalamic Stimulation Dear Henry: Re your recent query: Date: Sun, 24 Dec 1995 11:10:56 -0800 From: HENRY GUTTENTAG <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Thalamic stimulation (To all interested) I have been told by some of the investigators who are involved in the clinical trials of these devices that the results are good. Please keep in mind that this is by no means an EXTERNAL device. The procedure involves localizing (with microelectrode recording and stimulation) an appropriate region of the thalamus for the permanent implantation of stimulating electrodes which are then connected, much like a heart pacemaker with a power supply and assorted electronics which are implanted somewhere else in the body. The stimulating electrodes then give an adjustable pulsatile stimulation which has an effect similar to a pallidotomy. There are currently advantages and disadvantages to the procedure. Advantages: 1) Much less tissue is destroyed during the surgery because no lesion is made. 2) The neural tracts interconnecting the various regions of the brain are left mostly intact. 3) The stimulation can be turned off, or the electrodes removed, ie., the procedure is reversible. Disadvantages: 1) There is a higher degree of risk associated with implanted devices, than with short-term surgery. 2) Higher cost. 3) Thalamic stimulation is still considered highly experimental and is available only at certain centers. 4) Long-term results are unavailable. If you do decide to pursue the thalamic stimulation route, make sure that you work with a surgical team that incorporates microelectrode recording and microstimulation in their procedures to ensure the highest accuracy of electrode placement. Sincerely, Andy Blatz, PhD Axon Instruments, Inc. (Yes, we make microelectrode recording amplifiers.)