Robotic Deep Brain Stimulation (R-DBS)-“Awake” Deep Brain Stimulation Using the Neuromate Robot and O-Arm

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective surgical technique used to ameliorate the motor symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease. One of the key elements that determine successful patient outcomes is the accurate positioning of the DBS electrode during surgery. OBJECTIVE: To describe a robotic DBS (R-DBS) procedure using "awake" technique. METHODS AND MATERIALS: This procedure was performed using a frame-based approach with the NeuroMate surgical robot and intraoperative image verification of DBS electrode placement using the O-arm mobile x-ray system. The procedure was performed "Awake" using microelectrode recording (MER), stimulation, and macro-electrode testing. RESULTS: The accurate placement of DBS electrodes was confirmed with intraoperative image verification. This patient had good therapeutic response intraoperatively. No immediate postoperative complications related to DBS electrode placement were identified. CONCLUSIONS: R-DBS is a technique that can be used for the highly accurate placement of electrodes necessary for DBS.