Deep brain stimulation (DBS) with implantable pulse generators (IPGs) is widely used in the treatment of movement disorders. Rechargeable IPGs (RC-IPGs) were developed to extend device longevity and address the limitations of battery life in non-rechargeable IPGs. However, data regarding patient compliance and device-related complications remain limited. Therefore, this retrospective observational study evaluated compliance, satisfaction, and complications in patients with RC-IPGs. Compliance in 42 patients with RC-IPGs was evaluated using the Timmermann questionnaire together with additional questions regarding device preference, complaints, and complications. Statistical analyses were performed using NCSS software (Number Cruncher Statistical System, version 2020; NCSS LLC, Kaysville, UT, USA). Although a substantial percentage (42.9%) of patients needed help during recharging, the overall satisfaction score was high (96% of the maximum possible score), and 95.2% of patients preferred RC-IPGs if a repeat DBS would be required, and the rate of RC-IPG complications (7.1%) was low. The patients rated the display screen with the lowest scores (54.05%), mainly those who underwent two or more DBS surgeries. The training subscore showed a statistically significant negative correlation with age (r = −0.531, p = 0.001), and dystonia patients, constituting the youngest group in the cohort, rated training with higher points. This study provides additional data on patient compliance and safety of RC-IPGs. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of patient experience and factors affecting compliance with rechargeable systems.
Tekin et al. (Thu,) studied this question.