Deep brain stimulation improved executive control—or the ability to focus attention as well as plan and organize multiple activities—in people with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurred between 3 and 18 years earlier, according to from a small feasibility study involving 6 participants with persistent TBI-related symptoms. The improvements from baseline ranged from 15% to 52% among the 5 participants who completed the study. Some participants also experienced improved overall function, better mental health, and less fatigue.

Deep brain stimulation was delivered to a region of participants’ brains known as the central lateral nucleus of the thalamus and its related pathways. Researchers have hypothesized that underactivation of these areas due to their incomplete recovery after a brain injury might contribute to cognitive slowing and worse executive function.