Dexmedetomidine for deep brain stimulator placement in a child with primary generalized dystonia: case report and literature review

Dexmedetomidine, which is a relatively selective alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist, is used for sedation and analgesia in intensive care unit patients, during awake craniotomies in pediatric and adult patients, and during magnetic resonance imaging, with minimal depression of respiratory function. The successful use of dexmedetomidine in a pediatric patient undergoing bilateral deep brain stimulator placement for the treatment of generalized dystonia, is presented.