Scientists at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) have successfully tested a brain implant to block seizures and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The research was published in the journal Neuron.
The study authors implanted brain electrodes in a 34-year-old woman with epilepsy and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The latter is characterized by repetitive obsessive thoughts and actions. For example, before the procedure, the patient would take a shower every time after cleaning the cat’s litter box, and it could take up to 45 minutes to check if the stove was off before going to bed.
Having initially experienced having part of her brain removed in the hope of getting rid of epilepsy, the woman consulted doctors again to have anti-seizure electrodes inserted. Some people had previously reported improved mental health control, so they also asked doctors to expand the implant to target the area of the brain associated with OCD.
The 32-millimeter-long device covered areas of the brain involved in controlling seizures, motivation and compulsive behaviors associated with OCD. The woman’s condition improved significantly a few months after implantation.
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