Phoenix-based Barrow Neurological Institute researchers are testing the effect of deep brain stimulation on Alzheimer's disease, according to Medical Xpress.
Journal of Neurosurgery published Phase 2 study results on Dec. 18, 2015.
Here are seven takeaways:
1. DBS involves a neurostimulator delivering electrical signals to certain areas of the brain to regulate abnormal signals.
2. DBS is already approved to treat Parkinson's disease and essential tumor.
3. Francisco Ponce, MD, director of Barrow Center for Neuromodulation, thinks there may be potential for DBS in the realm of Alzheimer's. The study focuses on the fornix, because of the memory pathway.
4. The Advance Trial utilizes a Functional Neuromodulation device. The study involves 42 patients with mild Alzheimer's.
5. The study demonstrated no adverse device effects and no neurological deficits or instances of mortality.
6. The researchers concluded DBS surgery focusing on the fornix is safe for patients.
7. The next phase of the study focuses on the DBS' efficacy and long-term safety.