The Role of Microelectrode Recording in Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery for Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: STN-DBS is a cornerstone in the treatment of advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD). The traditional approach is to use an awake operative technique with microelectrode recording (MER). However, more centers start using an asleep MRI-guided technique without MER. Objective: We systematically reviewed the literature to compare STN-DBS surgery with and without MER for differences in clinical outcome. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases for randomized clinical trials and consecutive cohort studies published between 01-01-2000 and 26-08-2021, that included at least 10 PD patients who had received bilateral STN-DBS. Results: 2,129 articles were identified. After abstract screening and full-text review, 26 studies were included in the final analysis, comprising a total of 34 study groups (29 MER and 5 non-MER). The standardized mean difference (SMD) in change in motor symptoms between baseline (OFF medication) and 6–24 months follow-up (OFF medication and ON stimulation) was 1.64 for the MER group and 1.87 for non-MER group ( p = 0.59). SMD in change in levodopa equivalent daily dose (LEDD) was 1.14 for the MER group and 0.65 for non-MER group ( p < 0.01). Insufficient data were available for comparative analysis of PDQ-39 and complications. Conclusion: The change in motor symptoms from baseline to follow-up did not differ between studies that used MER and those that did not. The postoperative reduction in LEDD from baseline to follow-up was greater in the MER-group. In the absence of high-quality studies comparing both methods, there is a clear need for a well-designed comparative trial.