Left versus right subcallosal cingulate deep brain stimulation for treatment-resistant depression

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subcallosal cingulate has emerged as a promising therapy for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). To date, all studies have employed bilateral stimulation; however, physiology affect and pathophysiology are known to be asymmetric across hemispheres. Unilateral may provide efficacy while decreasing risk. Five patients were exposed unilateral open-label DBS 12 weeks each left then right hemispheres in double-blind, crossover fashion. After hemisphere, was initiated, followed additional weeks. Additionally, nine months long-term follow up data collected. Left, but not right, associated with significant decrease scores; stimulation, improved one patient remitted. No serious adverse events surgery or acute chronic stimulation. This small study suggests that an effective treatment TRD. All though antidepressant effects following modest. These findings contrast somewhat prior trials, duration shorter this trial. The current continues confirm safety implantation use TRD highlights importance personalization therapy, example by future trials.