BACKGROUND
The number of opioid related deaths in the US has more than tripled over the past seven years, with a steep increase beginning at the same time as the COVID-19 pandemic. There is an urgent need for novel treatment options that can help alleviate the individual and social suffering caused by refractory Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Deep brain stimulation (DBS), an intervention that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to deliver electrical impulses, is one potential treatment. Currently in clinical trials for many psychiatric conditions, including OUD, DBS’s use for psychiatric indications is not without controversy. Several studies have examined ethical issues raised by using DBS to counter treatment resistant depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. In contrast, there has been limited literature in regards to the use of DBS for OUD.
OBJECTIVE
To gain empirical neuroethical insights into public perceptions regarding the use of DBS for OUD, specifically via the analysis of online comments on news media articles about the topic.
METHODS
Qualitative thematic content analysis was performed on two Washington Post newspaper articles that described a case of DBS being used to treat OUD. A total of 292 comments were included in the analysis, 146 comments from each article, to identify predominant themes raised by commenters.
RESULTS
Predominant themes raised by commenters across the two samples included the hopes and expectations with treatment outcomes, whether addiction is a mental health disorder, and issues related to resource allocation. Controversial comments regarding DBS as a treatment method for OUD seemingly decreased when comparing the first printed newspaper article to the second. In comparison, the number of comments relating to therapeutic need increased over time.
CONCLUSIONS
The general public’s perspectives on DBS as a treatment method for OUD elucidated themes via this qualitative thematic content analysis that include overarching sociopolitical issues, positions on the use of technology, and technological and scientific issues. A better understanding of the public perceptions around the use of DBS for OUD can help address misinformation and misperceptions about the use of DBS for OUD, and identify similarities and differences regarding ethical concerns when DBS is used specifically for OUD compared to other psychiatric disorders.
CLINICALTRIAL
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