First Study of DBS for Thalamic Pain (Video)

Andre Machado, MD, PhD, of Cleveland Clinic’s Neurological Institute, has completed the first human clinical trial of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for refractive thalamic pain syndrome. The study is also the first controlled study to assess the effects of DBS on the affective or emotional sphere of pain. Thalamic pain syndrome is a chronic condition that is usually caused by a stroke. Patients describe their pain as a constant burning or aching sensation, disabling in nature. Dr. Machado targeted a particular area of the brain that is a key node in the networks that process mood and behavior. The study was carried out entirely at Cleveland Clinic with funding from the NIH Director’s New Innovator Award. “Chronic pain is not only a somatosensory phenomenon,” says Dr. Machado. “Affective and cognitive spheres are equally important in the experience of pain and suffering. Our approach aims to alleviate the affective sphere of pain and thus reduce pain-related disability.”