DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION VERSUS PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT FOR PARKINSON’S DISEASE: CLINICAL OUTCOMES AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder whose pharmacological treatment may present limitations as the disease progresses, including motor fluctuations and dyskinesias. In this context, deep brain stimulation (DBS) represents a therapeutic alternative. This study aimed to compare clinical outcomes and quality of life between conventional pharmacological treatment and DBS in patients with PD. This is an integrative literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach, conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, and LILACS databases and including original studies published between 2021 and 2026. A total of 521 articles were identified, of which 17 were included in the final sample. The studies indicated that DBS may provide benefits in controlling motor complications, improving functionality and quality of life, and reducing medication burden. However, the results varied according to patients’ characteristics and the outcomes assessed, and not all studies directly compared the interventions. Heterogeneity was also observed in cognitive, behavioral, and safety outcomes. It is concluded that DBS provides benefits for certain outcomes but does not necessarily replace pharmacological treatment. Its indication should be individualized, taking into account the benefits, risks, and clinical characteristics of each patient. Further comparative studies with more robust methodologies are needed to clarify the magnitude and durability of these effects.