Modulation of dysarthropneumophonia by low-frequency STN DBS in advanced Parkinson's disease

Background: Parkinsonian dysarthria (as typically characterized by hypophonia, monotony of pitch, and rhythm abnormalities) is often accompanied by gait disturbances. The long‐term effect of subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN DBS) on dysarthria remains unclear. Methods: Given STN DBS's known improvement of gait disorders, we analyzed speech intelligibility and aerodynamic and acoustic parameters in 11 advanced PD patients in three double‐blind, randomized conditions: “defined Off,” 60 Hz STN DBS and 130 Hz STN DBS. Results: An improvement in aerodynamic speech parameters during 60 Hz STN DBS was accompanied by significant clinical benefit. Conclusions: Chronic treatment with low‐frequency STN DBS may have a beneficial impact on dysarthropneumophonia, even in advanced PD patients. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society