Evelina London Children’s Hospital has established itself as one of the largest and most advanced pediatric neuroscience centers in Europe. The facility treats children with epilepsy, neuro-disability, sleep disorders, and a variety of movement conditions, including complex dystonia and cerebral palsy.
Deep Brain Stimulation for Severe Conditions
The hospital offers a specialized deep brain stimulation (DBS) program considered one of the largest and most established globally. This procedure involves placing tiny electrodes and a pacemaker-like device into the brain to correct abnormal signals causing severe movement problems. It is typically used when other treatments have failed. The surgery can significantly reduce painful muscle contractions and improve daily function. Because a child’s body changes rapidly, the device requires ongoing adjustments as they grow. The treatment is lifelong, meaning the implant stays in place for the patient’s entire life.
Surgeons at Evelina London have a long track record of performing these operations on very young patients. In 2019, the team treated a two-year-old girl with severe dystonia, making her the youngest child in the world to receive the procedure at the time. The medical team assesses children with all forms of dystonia, including dyskinetic cerebral palsy and rare metabolic disorders, to determine if they are suitable candidates for the surgery.
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Robot-assisted techniques and intraoperative imaging are used to ensure the electrodes are placed with high accuracy. This technology supports safer implantation and better outcomes. The results show major reductions in dystonia severity, often between 50 and 70 percent in cases of genetic dystonia, along with pain improvement in about 90% of affected children.
Next-Generation Technology and Research
Surgeons at Evelina London are also testing next-generation devices. In 2024, the team implanted one of the world’s first rechargeable, “sensing” DBS systems in a 14-year-old with cerebral palsy-related dystonia. This new device allows clinicians to track brain rhythms and tailor electrical impulses in real time. Older devices required battery replacements every four to five years, necessitating further surgeries. The rechargeable system utilizes new battery technology that offers an unlimited lifespan.
Consultants at Evelina London contribute to major multi-center studies and publications on pediatric DBS safety and outcomes. This research helps shape international guidelines and positions the hospital as a global center of excellence. Dr. Daniel Lumsden, the clinical lead for the complex motor disorders service, is recognized as an international expert in childhood dystonia. He notes that the team has assessed nearly 1,000 children, combining cutting-edge research with a focus on improving clinical care.
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For families facing these complex neurological challenges, having access to a facility that integrates research with clinical practice can change the trajectory of a child’s development. The ability to tailor treatments as a child grows, rather than relying on a static medical plan, offers a tangible improvement in the management of chronic conditions. It allows for a more responsive approach to therapy that adapts to the patient’s evolving needs.
Integrated Care and International Support
The neuroscience service at Evelina London is fully integrated with other children’s services to provide end-to-end support. This includes consultants in neurology, neuro-disability, neuromuscular disorders, and neuropsychiatry, along with speech and language therapists. The dedicated multidisciplinary team ensures that care spans from initial assessment through surgery to long-term optimization of stimulation.
The hospital also supports international patients with a fully personalized service. The dedicated international team works closely with embassies, referring clinicians, and families to coordinate every aspect of the treatment plan. This support system is vital for families traveling from abroad, helping them handle the complexities of medical care while away from home.
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