Partners' view after subthalamic deep brain stimulation: Better relationships despite patients being less active

INTRODUCTION: After deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN), Parkinson patients report difficulties in the relationship with their partners. The partners' experience after DBS appears to be variable and complex. Purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the partners' perspective on the relationship following STN-DBS. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We conducted a postoperative questionnaire assessment in 56 partners of Parkinson patients with STN-DBS, using questionnaires addressing partnership satisfaction, dyadic coping, and role allocation in duties and activities of daily living. RESULTS: Regarding overall relationship satisfaction after surgery, 40% of partners were happier with their relationship than before DBS, and 14% were less satisfied. Partners reported that patients involved themselves distinctly less in duties and activities of daily living, leaving partners to take over. A need for more professional support for the relationship following surgery was noted by 27% of the partners. CONCLUSION: Although quality of relationship and dyadic coping improved or remained unchanged according to the majority of partners, patients became less prone to take over common duties and activities despite being in a better and more stable motor state. Potential conflicts and problems in role allocation in relationships following DBS need to be addressed in patients care.