Abstract

Deep Brain Stimulation has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for treating refractory psychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and treatment-resistant schizophrenia. While numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of DBS in ameliorating the symptoms of these conditions, concerns regarding its potential impact on cognitive functioning have been raised. This review aims to summarize and critically evaluate existing literature on the cognitive safety of DBS in refractory psychiatric disorders. The review explores the neurocognitive effects associated with various target regions, stimulation parameters, and patient characteristics. Moreover, it assesses the long-term cognitive outcomes and identifies potential factors that may contribute to cognitive changes post-DBS. The findings of this review have implications for clinicians and researchers involved in the use of DBS as a therapeutic intervention for refractory psychiatric disorders, highlighting the importance of considering cognitive safety in treatment planning and patient selection.

Keywords: Deep brain stimulation; DBS; Refractory psychiatric disorders; Major depressive disorder; Obsessive-compulsive disorder; Treatment-resistant schizophrenia