Objective: To investigate the effects of STN-DBS on cognitive-motor dual-task performance in PD patients using an executive function-motor function dual-task paradigm combined with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS).

Background: Subthalamic Nucleus-Deep Brain Stimulation (STN-DBS) can significantly improve motor symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and has become a standard treatment option. Standing or walking while performing cognitive tasks is a key skill in daily life. Dual-task ability, which involve performing cognitive tasks while standing or walking, are essential for daily life but are often impaired in PD patients.

Method: Twenty-two PD patients were evaluated before and after STN-DBS surgery using fNIRS during cognitive-motor dual-task performance. Changes in task performance, brain activation, and functional connectivity were analyzed.

Results: STN-DBS significantly improved dual-task performance, positively impacting both motor and executive functions. Under the three different task conditions, the group activation of patients in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and primary motor cortex (PMC) was significantly lower after surgery than before surgery. Functional connectivity analysis revealed widely weakened connectivity across the whole brain after STN-DBS, indicating reduced neural synchronization in cognitive and motor networks. These changes were associated with improved performance in tasks.

Conclusion: This study proposed the improvement effect of STN-DBS on abnormal activities of the prefrontal cortex and motor cortex of the brain. It also validates the potential of fNIRS in assessing the mechanisms of neurorehabilitation following DBS surgery.

« Back to 2025 International Congress

MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/subthalamic-deep-brain-stimulation-modulates-cognitive-motor-integration-in-parkinsons-disease-insights-from-a-dual-task-fnirs-study/