Autologous adrenal medullary transplant in Parkinson's disease: critical review of our results in 13 patients

Autotransplantation of the adrenal medullary to the caudate nucleus has been proposed for severe Parkinson's disease (PD). We describe our experience in 13 patients using a transperitoneal approach to the medullary and craniotomy for the implant: the neurosurgical equipe's decision to opt for craniotomy made quick removal of the medullary with minimal morbidity more difficult. The surgical technique are discussed. We evaluated also the impact of the procedure on urinary symptoms and sexual disturbances associated with PD. Results were disappointing. Four patients died post-operatively. The neurological pattern improved in three men and one woman. No significant improvement was observed in the urological and sexual dysfunctions.