Effect of DBS on Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Effect of Deep Brain Stimulation on Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
IRAS ID
368729
Contact name
Mohamed Soliman
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
North Bristol Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Parkinson’s disease is a long-term condition that affects movement but also causes many non-motor symptoms, such as problems with sleep, pain, bladder function, blood pressure, mood, and thinking. These non-motor symptoms can have a major impact on a person’s quality of life, but they are often less well studied than movement symptoms.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is an established surgical treatment for Parkinson’s disease and is routinely used within the NHS to improve movement problems. DBS involves placing thin wires into specific areas of the brain and delivering electrical stimulation. While DBS is known to improve movement, its effects on non-motor symptoms are less well understood, and these effects may vary depending on which part of the brain is stimulated.
This study aims to better understand how DBS affects non-motor symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease and whether different DBS targets lead to different outcomes. The study will take place at Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, and will include around 30 adults who are already undergoing DBS as part of their routine NHS care.
This is an observational study, meaning no changes will be made to participants’ usual treatment. Information will be collected using questionnaires, simple observations such as blood pressure measurements, and bladder assessments during routine clinic visits. No additional hospital visits are required.
By comparing symptoms before and after DBS surgery, this study hopes to improve understanding of how DBS influences non-motor symptoms. The results may help clinicians better inform patients, personalise treatment in the future, and improve overall care for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
REC name
East of England - Essex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/EE/0076
Date of REC Opinion
27 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion