RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Quantification of motor functions of patients with dystonic syndromes treated by chronic high frequency stimulation of the internal globulus pallidus is a challenge. OBJECTIVE: Through a series of clinical examples this paper shows that kinematic analysis of movements in dystonic syndromes treated by deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a complement to clinical evaluation. In addition, it provides valuable information for early detection of improvement or impairment of movements associated with modifications of stimulation parameters. METHOD: Thirteen dystonic patients and eleven reference subjects completed three tests (i.e., rest: lying supine; posture: standing with arms held in front (at shoulder height); and alternative movements: bimanual finger-to-nose test). These tests were recorded with an electromagnetic system quantifying movement kinematics (position) in three-dimensional space. RESULTS: From the recorded data, several indices were developed and provided a quantitative evaluation of movements during each test. In addition, a clinical evaluation (BMFDRS) was also completed. No correlation between clinical and kinematic evaluations was found. CONCLUSION: It is shown that kinematic analysis is a useful complement of clinical evaluation and can assist clinicians in monitoring the evolution of movements in dystonic patients treated by DBS in a simple, reliable and valid fashion.
