A to Z of MS
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A to Z of MS Thalamotomy
Thalamotomy is an surgical procedure to treat significant tremor. It will usually only be considered for people who present with very severe tremor that has not responded to other treatment approaches.
Thalamotomy involves surgically destroying part of the thalamus (an area of the brain that when damaged by MS can cause tremor). It is most commonly used to improve one side of the body over the other.
Research suggests that around 48% of people have improved function after undergoing a thalamotomy. A recent review found that tremor suppression continues in around 64% of people one year after surgery.
The operation is associated with a slight but significant mortality risk following surgery, and with the onset of new symptoms, particularly speech, swallowing and balance disorders.
In practice, deep brain stimulation may often be preferred as a treatment option, as it is less invasive and potentially reversible.
Reference
Yap L, et al.
Stereotactic neurosurgery for disabling tremor in multiple sclerosis: thalamotomy or deep brain stimulation?
British Journal of Neurosurgery 2007;21(4):349-354.
abstract