Editorial: Advances in Functional Neurosurgery

In the last 20 years, there have been considerable advances in the techniques, technologies, and approaches devoted to functional neurosurgery. These advances have led to improved stereotactic accuracy, better outcomes, a lower rate of complications, and an increasing number of patients benefiting from this neurosurgical approach. In particular, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) has become the leading stereotactic technique for the treatment of refractory neurological symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), tremor, and dystonia. Research outcomes in the field are often limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity of participants, and lack of reliable neurophysiological biomarkers. However, the experience acquired and the technological innovations in the fields of surgery and neuroimaging have made new strategies available to improve the accuracy of the current practice.