Karleigh’s Story: 1st in the World to have Robotic Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

Karleigh’s Story: Deep Brain Stimulation surgery is first of its kind in a child.

Karleigh Fry's life took a drastic turn at four years old when a fever triggered an undiagnosed genetic disorder, leading to severe deterioration in her motor skills, leaving her paralyzed and unable to speak.

Seeking answers, Karleigh’s family turned to Dr. Amber Stocco, Medical Director of Child and Adolescent Neurology at Bethany Children’s Health Center. Genetic testing revealed rapid onset dystonia, a rare condition. Despite treatment attempts, including medication, Karleigh's condition showed no improvement, prompting consideration of surgery.In August of 2023, Karleigh underwent surgery at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital to implant a deep brain stimulation (DBS) device. It was the first time worldwide that DBS was placed robotically in a child.

Dr. Andrew Jea, Pediatric Neurosurgeon at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital OU Health, says of the groundbreaking surgery, “This means that we now have an effective surgical treatment that’s very accurate and safe for kids that may not have had another option.”

Dr. Stocco emphasized the importance of combining technologies for better outcomes, stating, “Both of those technologies coming together for better results is what we’re doing here in Oklahoma, and it’s exciting that we are leading the edge on what’s happening in the world of deep brain stimulation, as well as robotics.”

Karleigh’s family is grateful for the innovative treatment she has received, as Karleigh continues to improve. Her parents can make adjustments to the DBS as needed and Karleigh continues to see Dr. Stocco for follow-up treatment.

https://www.bethanychildrens.org