Neurosurgeons told to watch for signs of “twiddler's syndrome”

doi:10.1136/bmj.39279.395787.BE

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Roger Dobson

Abergavenny

Neurosurgeons need to watch out for signs of “twiddler's syndrome” in their patients, a new report warns.

With the increasing use of implanted stimulation devices, there have been a number of reports where patients have consciously, subconsciously, or unintentionally moved wires attached to the device.

“With the advent of implanted pulse generators in the treatment of epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and pain those caring for patients with such a device should be aware of this potential complication,” says the report in Surgical Neurology (doi: 10.1016/j.surneu.2006.10.062).

It says, “Experience …