SEEG-Guided DBS for Schizophrenia

Inclusion Criteria: * Meets the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia. * Male or female, aged 18 to 55 years, with stable vital signs. * Currently presents with prominent psychotic symptoms, assessed as moderate or severe by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) or other equivalent scales. * Exhibits impaired social functioning, assessed as moderate or severe impairment by the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS) or other equivalent scales. * Has a history of sequential treatment with at least two antipsychotic medications of different chemical structures known for strong efficacy against positive symptoms. Treatment must have been at an adequate dose and for an adequate duration (continuous treatment at a therapeutic dose for more than 6 weeks per medication), with good treatment adherence. * Has been on a stable antipsychotic medication regimen for at least one month prior to enrollment. * Capable and willing to provide written informed consent. * Demonstrates good compliance and is able to cooperate with all follow-up procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with any psychiatric disorder other than schizophrenia. * Presence of a severe personality disorder. * History of severe neurological diseases, such as seizures or hemorrhagic stroke. * Presence of structural brain abnormalities. * Previous history of stereotactic neurosurgery. * Contraindications to general anesthesia or stereotactic neurosurgery. * Any current or anticipated condition-including medical, psychological, social, familial support, or geographical factors-that might compromise patient safety or interfere with successful participation in the study.