Key clinical outcomes of systematic treatment for opioid addiction a dual-target DBS approach with brain-computer interface technology.

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Key clinical outcomes of systematic treatment for opioid addiction a dual-target DBS approach with brain-computer interface technology.

Drug addiction is a complex, chronic brain disorder—not a moral failing, as emphasized by the World Health Organization (WHO). It creates a multi-level “,” affecting physiological, psychological, and social aspects of life, and has profound impacts on individuals, families, and society. Under the influence of opioid addiction, patients typically show two core characteristics: Withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings: When use of the substance stops, patients often experience negative emotions such as depression, anxiety, and irritability, along with a range of physical withdrawal symptoms. These are frequently accompanied by overwhelming urges to use the drug again, driving cyclical and compulsive use. Cue-induced relapse: Over time, patients form strong associations with drug-related environments, people, objects, or even the substance itself. Even after extended abstinence, exposure to these “cues” can trigger intense, uncontrollable cravings, leading to relapse. This cycle of relapse, abstinence, and relapse again is a central reason why patients struggle to break free from addiction. To address this global challenge, SceneRay has developed an innovative dual-target deep brain stimulation (DBS) system based on brain-computer interface technology, along with a systematic treatment protocol for severe drug addiction. The approach integrates four key phases—preoperative detoxification, surgical implantation, postoperative programming, and rehabilitation management—forming a comprehensive closed-loop treatment system. Over more than a decade of clinical research and trials, patients with opioid addiction undergoing this treatment have shown the following key clinical improvements:
Abstract brain network illustration
Rapid relief of withdrawal symptoms: After device activation and programming, most patients show significant improvements in mood, including reduced depression, anxiety, and irritability, along with increased energy, more verbal engagement, and a greater sense of physical ease. Many patients notice these effects on the day of activation, while a few may experience results after several days. Gradual resolution of acute and protracted withdrawal symptoms: Some patients may still experience physical withdrawal symptoms during the initial activation period. Short-term medications can be used as needed, then gradually tapered and discontinued. For most patients, these symptoms naturally resolve within 1–2 months. Marked reduction in drug cravings: Patients’ persistent, uncontrollable opioid cravings typically shift to occasional, fleeting thoughts within 7–30 days of device activation, with noticeable decreases in both intensity and frequency. Ongoing improvements in emotional regulation and social functioning: As treatment continues, patients show steady gains in emotional control and social adaptation, gradually displaying stable agreeableness and appropriate expressions of joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness in everyday social situations. There is a notable increase in their willingness to communicate, share feelings, and care for others—especially in rebuilding close relationships, such as with family and friends, that were neglected during addiction. Their ability to reconnect socially improves steadily. Improved sleep patterns: Some patients may initially have trouble falling asleep due to elevated mood. By adjusting the stimulation to a scheduled “daytime mode” and “nighttime mode,” most patients regain regular, high-quality sleep within 1–2 weeks. Improved control over addiction triggers: Within 1–3 months of activation, patients show a significant reduction—or even complete elimination—of impulsive drug cravings when exposed to drug-related cues, gradually gaining the ability to actively resist drug use. Most patients achieve full independence from addiction within 1.5–2 years after DBS implantation, allowing them to discontinue treatment, have the device removed, and maintain lasting sobriety.
Patient speaking with a clinical team
This treatment system involves four key phases:
  1. Preoperative detoxification (about 2 weeks): Standardized detox procedures are used to manage acute withdrawal symptoms and ensure patients are in a safe condition for DBS surgery.
  2. Implantation surgery and perioperative care (approximately 2–3 weeks): This includes a 5–7-day inpatient surgical period, followed by 10–15 days of monitoring for wound healing and suture removal.
  3. Programming and parameter optimization (starting 10–14 days post-surgery): During the first 1–3 months after device activation, multiple personalized programming adjustments are made based on the patient’s emotional state, physical condition, and craving patterns. Once parameters stabilize, patients continue with monthly follow-ups and fine-tuning as needed.
  4. Three-month soft isolation rehabilitation post-surgery: After activation, patients undergo a three-month “soft isolation” period, avoiding exposure to addictive substances, related environments, individuals, and other high-risk triggers. This phase is critical for consolidating therapeutic effects, gradually reshaping neural circuits, and rebuilding behavioral control. Clinical observations show that most patients experience a marked reduction in cue-induced cravings after three months, reflecting an initial ability to maintain long-term abstinence.
Recovery support setting
From 2014 to 2024, SceneRay Medical partnered with leading clinical hospitals in China to conduct research and trials on its innovative products. Results showed that 80% of patients with severe drug addiction remained abstinent for six months after dual-target DBS surgery. Among patients treated for 6–10 years, 69% remained completely drug-free, . Summary: The dual-target DBS system with brain-computer interface technology not only precisely targets the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction but also supports comprehensive rehabilitation—from physiological regulation to behavioral reconstruction—through a multi-stage, collaborative treatment approach. This represents a promising scientific solution to the persistent challenge of opioid addiction.

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