[Consensus Statement on deep brain stimulation for treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder].

BACKGROUND

Since 2013, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been reimbursed in the Netherlands as a proven effective treatment for treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Nevertheless, DBS is still rarely applied, and a national Dutch treatment protocol is lacking.

AIM

To prepare a nationwide multidisciplinary treatment protocol for the application of DBS in the treatment of treatment-resistant OCD.

METHOD

Formulation of recommendations for the execution and application of DBS in OCD regarding indication, implantation, optimization of stimulation parameters, and consolidation of long-term effects, based on literature research and consensus among experts represented in the multidisciplinary Dutch DBS in Psychiatry working group.

RESULTS

Following indication, DBS electrodes are bilaterally implanted in white matter tracts in the anterior limb of the internal capsule. In previously highly treatment-resistant patients with severe OCD, this leads to an average 66% response rate after optimization of stimulation parameters. Placebo-controlled effects are significant (Hedges’ g = 0.9). The main reported side effects are transient hypomanic symptoms, fatigue, and subjective cognitive complaints. Perioperative complications are rare. Positive effects remain stable during years of follow-up. DBS is cost-effective and leads to increased quality of life and functional recovery. Nevertheless, DBS is applied infrequently relative to the estimated number of patients with treatment-resistant OCD.

CONCLUSION

By adhering to the described recommendations regarding indication, implantation, optimization, and consolidation, DBS is an effective and safe treatment option for treatment-resistant OCD. A nationwide multidisciplinary treatment protocol can contribute to the implementation of DBS with more and earlier referrals, allowing more patients to benefit from this treatment more quickly.