Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus for primary Meige syndrome: clinical outcomes and predictive factors

OBJECTIVE Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) has demonstrated efficacy against multiple types of dystonia, but only a few case reports and small-sample studies have investigated the clinical utility of STN-DBS for Meige syndrome, a rare but distressing form of craniofacial dystonia. Furthermore, the effects of DBS on critical neuropsychological sequelae, such as depression and anxiety, are rarely examined. In this study, the authors investigated the therapeutic efficacy of STN-DBS for both motor and psychiatric symptoms of Meige syndrome. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with Meige syndrome receiving bilateral STN-DBS at their institution from January 2016 to June 2023. Motor performance and nonmotor features including mood, cognitive function, and quality of life (QOL) were evaluated using standardized rating scales at baseline and at final postoperative follow-up. Clinical and demographic factors influencing postoperative motor outcome were evaluated by uni- and multivariable linear regression models. RESULTS Fifty-one patients were ultimately included, with a mean ± SD follow-up duration of 27.3 ± 18.0 months. The mean Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) movement score improved from 12.9 ± 5.2 before surgery to 5.3 ± 4.2 at the last follow-up (mean improvement 58.9%, p < 0.001) and the mean BFMDRS disability score improved from 5.6 ± 3.3 to 2.9 ± 2.9 (mean improvement 44.6%, p < 0.001). Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating Scale scores also improved by 35.3% and 34.2%, respectively, and the postoperative 36-item Short-Form Health Survey score indicated substantial QOL enhancement. Global cognition remained stable after treatment. Multiple linear regression analysis identified disease duration (β = −0.241, p = 0.027), preoperative anxiety severity (β = −0.386, p = 0.001), and volume of activated tissue within the dorsolateral (sensorimotor) STN (β = 0.483, p < 0.001) as independent predictors of motor outcome. CONCLUSIONS These findings support STN-DBS as an effective and promising therapy for both motor and nonmotor symptoms of Meige syndrome. Timely diagnosis, treatment of preoperative anxiety, and precise electrode placement within the dorsolateral STN are essential for optimal clinical outcome.