Study of Brain Network Changes and Cognitive Effects After Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinsons Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how Deep Brain Stimulation DBS targeting the subthalamic nucleus STN affects brain networks related to thinking and memory in people with Parkinsons Disease PD. The study aims to understand why some patients experience cognitive decline after DBS surgery despite careful evaluation before the procedure. This research explores how changes in brain connectivity and structure caused by DBS might lead to these declines and hopes to improve patient selection and stimulation targeting to reduce unwanted cognitive effects. Participants in this observational study have all undergone DBS surgery for PD. They will attend two study visits after their surgery one 3-hour visit for consent, demographic information, and cognitive testing, and another 3-hour visit involving MRI scans while their DBS device is switched ON and OFF. The scans will measure brain activity and network changes caused by DBS using functional MRI techniques. During the study, researchers will assess changes in executive function, language, and attention over about one year after DBS implantation. Participants will undergo cognitive tests and brain imaging to evaluate these changes. The study will monitor how brain stimulation impacts cognitive networks and will follow participants for about 10 to 14 months to understand the long-term effects. This information will help refine DBS treatment strategies for Parkinsons Disease.

Cognitive Decline Following Deep Brain Stimulation: A DBS-fMRI Study