PARKINSON'S KINETIGRAPH IMPROVES MOVEMENT DISORDER SERVICE PROVISION

Introduction Objective evaluation of symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be challenging. There is increasing interest in technological solutions to assess, monitor and manage people with PD. Objective To evaluate the effect of the Parkinson’s Kinetigraph (PKG) on management of patients with PD in a large tertiary movement disorder service. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the notes of 47 patients with PD (22 female, 25 male) who underwent PKG recording over a six month period. The indications and PKG findings, and the subsequent effect on clinical decision making and service provision were recorded. Results Management was significantly altered in 25 patients (53%), while in 13 patients (28%) PKG confirmed the use of advanced therapies such as deep brain stimulation. Significant effects were seen with regard to service provision. Outpatient appointments could be deferred with advice following PKG in 15 (32%), advanced therapies assessment was improved in 16 (34%), while inpatient admission was avoided in six patients (13%). Conclusion The use of PKG has enhanced service provision in our movement disorder service. In particular, it enhances our assessment of patients considered for high-cost advanced therapies, allows more efficient use of clinic appointments, and has the potential to reduce hospital admissions.