PD is a progressive and disabling condition that impairs the QOL. DBS, an alternative therapy for PD, has a positive impact on QOL. 

Retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent DBS between 2009-2021 with follow-up at 3 (3M), 12 (12M), and 36 (36M) months. The MDS-UPDRS scale and PD Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39) were used. The treatment was measured in equivalent levodopa dose (LED). Results were analyzed according to the stimulated nucleus. The relationship between baseline variables and postoperative QOL was analyzed. Statistical analysis was done in R4.2.0, considering significant p-value <0.05.

Thirty-six subjects were included. Twenty targets in the subthalamic nucleus (STN). Twenty-five were men. Age of diagnosis: 43.94 (±7.65). Age at surgery: 56.58 (±7.69). Years of disease: 12.67 (±6.11).

Baseline UPDRS: 67.6, at 3M: 48.77, at 12M: 53.2, at 36M: 66.88.

Baseline LED: 1496 mEq, with significant decrease at 3M, 12M and 36M in NST (p<0,05). 

Baseline PDQ-39: 42.58 (±16.08). At 3M PDQ-39: 31.90 (±15.16), significant improvement (p<0.01). At 12M PDQ-39: 30.55 (±13.83), significant improvement (p<0.01). At 36M, PDQ-39: 36.17 (±17.14), not significant improvement. At 36M PDQ-39 was significantly better for NST.

Patients with longer disease time (≥11 años), baseline Hoehn y Yahr (HyH) score in OFF >2.5, and in ON≤2.5 presented significantly better QOL at 3M and 12M.

A significant improvement in QOL was observed in the short and medium term. In long-term follow-up it was not significant. When comparing nuclei, QOL was significantly better for patients who were stimulated at STN level.