Post-operative deep brain stimulation assessment: Automatic data integration and report generation

BACKGROUND The gold standard for post-operative deep brain stimulation (DBS) parameter tuning is a monopolar review of all stimulation contacts, a strategy being challenged by recent developments of more complex electrode leads. OBJECTIVE Providing a method to guide clinicians on DBS assessment and parameter tuning by automatically integrating patient individual data. METHODS We present a fully automatic method for visualization of individual deep brain structures in relation to a DBS lead by combining precise electrode recovery from post-operative imaging with individual estimates of deep brain morphology utilizing a 7T-MRI deep brain atlas. RESULTS The method was evaluated on 20 STN DBS cases. It demonstrated robust automatic creation of 3D-enabled PDF reports visualizing electrode to brain structure relations and proved valuable in detecting miss placed electrodes. DISCUSSION Automatic DBS assessment is feasible and can conveniently provide clinicians with relevant information on DBS contact positions in relation to important anatomical structures.