Factors Affecting Patient Compliance with Rechargeable Implantable Pulse Generators for Deep Brain Stimulation

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.