Meige syndrome is a challenging movement disorder often resistant to standard treatments like botulinum toxin. Consequently, DBS for Meige syndrome has emerged as an effective neurosurgical intervention for refractory cases. This retrospective study compared two primary surgical targets, the globus pallidus internus (GPi) and the subthalamic nucleus (STN), to determine which offers better results.

Specifically, the researchers evaluated data from 162 patients over several years. Initially, they assessed motor improvements using the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale at three months post-surgery. Both groups showed strong results, with the GPi and STN cohorts improving by approximately 53.3% and 53.6%, respectively. Furthermore, these improvements remained consistent throughout the long-term follow-up period of over 37 months.

Long-Term Efficacy of DBS for Meige syndrome

Notably, the study found that 71.1% of GPi patients and 70.9% of STN patients achieved at least a 50% improvement in symptoms. Additionally, nearly half of all patients reported a significant reduction of more than 75% in their dystonia scores. However, the data revealed no statistically significant difference between the two surgical targets regarding short-term or long-term efficacy. Therefore, clinicians can select the target based on individual patient characteristics and potential side effect profiles.

Ultimately, both GPi-DBS and STN-DBS serve as reliable options for managing Meige syndrome. These findings offer valuable guidance for functional neurosurgeons and neurologists in India dealing with medication-resistant dystonia cases. However, further prospective research will help refine these target selection criteria.

FAQs

Which brain target is more effective for Meige syndrome?

Both the globus pallidus internus (GPi) and the subthalamic nucleus (STN) show comparable efficacy in treating Meige syndrome, with no significant difference in long-term outcomes.

What level of improvement can patients expect from DBS?

According to long-term data, approximately 70% of patients experience a 50% or greater improvement in their motor symptoms after undergoing deep brain stimulation.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a professional relationship. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

Wu G et al. Globus pallidus internus versus subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation for Meige syndrome: a retrospective study on short- and long-term efficacy. J Neurosurg. 2026 Feb 06. doi: 10.3171/2025.9.JNS251420. PMID: 41650451.

Wu X et al. Pallidal versus subthalamic deep brain stimulation for Meige syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Heliyon. 2024 Mar 10;10(6):e27945. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27945.

Wang X et al. Efficacy comparison and outcome predictors of GPi- and STN-targeted deep brain stimulation for Meige syndrome: a systematic review of individual patient data. Front Hum Neurosci. 2025 Jan 24. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2025.132456.