Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is currently used as an effective treatment to reduce symptoms in chronic pain and movement disorders. An inadvertent and positive side effect of this therapy is the autonomic response to DBS in terms of changes to respiratory indices, lung function, and urinary and bladder function. This Review discusses the circuitry of the autonomic nervous system and its higher control centres, and the potential for DBS as a therapy for patients with dysautonomias.
- Jonathan A. Hyam
- Morten L. Kringelbach
- Alexander L. Green
