Advanced interventions

The Advanced Interventions Service (AIS) provides assessment and treatment options for people suffering from chronic and severe treatment-refractory depression (TRD).

Failure to respond to other types of treatment is generally the reason for referral. Patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) may also need advanced interventions.

The service is based at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.

What does the Advanced Interventions Service offer?

The assessment process for people with OCD or TRD takes place over a full day. Experts examine symptoms in detail and carry out semi-structured diagnostic interviews. They also discuss everything with family members.

The service additionally assesses patient suitability for neurosurgical treatment. They may benefit from ablative neurosurgery. This procedure takes place at University College London, Queen’s Square Hospital. The AIS service conducts follow-up care for patients who receive this neurosurgical treatment.

The primary aim of the service is to achieve improvement in symptoms of OCD or a reduction in depressive symptoms. Overall, this can improve the quality of life for patients.