Directional deep brain stimulation (DBS) has the potential to minimize stimulation-induced side effects and maximize clinical benefits

To maximize the opportunity of directionality, the surgical planning should be based on the DBS lead level containing segmented directional electrodes

Visualization software platforms can assist programming by estimating the volume of tissue activated by conventional or directional DBS electrodes

Functional software platforms can support directional programming by creating an action plan of ranked alternatives that may be needed over time

Directional DBS may avoid the need for complex stimulation protocols, such as bipolar stimulation, frequency or pulse width modulation, or interleaving