Comparative neural correlates of DBS and MRgFUS lesioning for tremor control in essential tremor

BackgroundGiven high rates of early complications and non-reversibility, refined targeting is necessitated for magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy for essential tremor (ET). Selection of lesion location can be informed by considering optimal stimulation area from deep brain stimulation (DBS).Methods118 patients with ET who received DBS (39) or MRgFUS (79) of the ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) underwent stimulation/lesion mapping, probabilistic mapping of clinical efficacy and normative structural connectivity analysis. The efficacy maps were compared, which depict the relationship between stimulation/lesion location and clinical outcome.ResultsEfficacy maps overlap around the VIM ventral border and encompass the dentato-rubro-thalamic tract. While the MRgFUS map extends inferiorly into the posterior subthalamic area, the DBS map spreads inside the VIM antero-superiorly.ConclusionComparing the efficacy maps of DBS and MRgFUS suggests a potential alternative location for lesioning, more antero-superiorly. This may reduce complications, without sacrificing efficacy, and individualise targeting.Trial registration numberNCT02252380.