DBS will not cure the disease, but it may improve the symptoms thatmedicine for Parkinsonsis not adequately treating.

It may result in more on time (a longer duration of feeling good) during the day.

Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin

How Does Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinsons Work?

Deep brain stimulation works by modifying abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Then, the leads are placed via small holes that a surgeon drills in the skull.

This is considered a minimally invasive surgery that is done in the operating room with local anesthesia.

It usually requires an overnight stay.

The IPG is inserted in a separate surgical procedure in the operating room roughly a week later.

After a few weeks, a neurologist begins to program the unit.

This process can take several additional weeks to months.

Its not known exactly how DBS works.

But symptoms that are not changed with levodopa are unlikely to be improved by DBS.

The result is often improved quality of life.

Who May Benefit from Deep Brain Stimulation?

A number of criteria can help identify people who are good candidates for deep brain stimulation.

Who Should Have Deep Brain Stimulation?

In another study, STN deep brain stimulation also led to a greater reduction in medication dosages.

Side effects of DBS can sometimes include subtle cognitive changes (a decline).

A different study compared these effects with regard to these different areas.

On a positive note, both procedures seemed to reduce symptoms of depression following surgery.

While DBS maycauseside effects, it may alsoreduceside effects from medications.

Its important to note that DBS does not appear to cause any significant permanent damage to the brain.

Another 0.4% suffered a stroke.

Side Effects

Side effects are common but tend to be relatively mild.

They can also be broken down into those related to the surgery and those related to stimulation.

Side effects related to surgery may include a headache or a worsening of emotional symptoms.

Its usually recommended that any heavy lifting be avoided for a few weeks.

After another two to four weeks, youll return to have your gear programmed.

This process will continue for several weeks to ensure the stimulation configs are optimal to control your symptoms.

Rechargeable batteries may last up to 15 years.

There are several precautions related to electrical/magnetic devices that are important, but usually easy to accommodate.

Items such as cell phones, computers, and home appliances do not generally interfere with the stimulator.

Keep your stimulator identification card handy when you are out and about, in your wallet or purse.

Theft Detectors

Be aware that some devices may cause your transmitter to turn on or off.

This includes security monitors (theft detectors) that might be found at the library and retail shops.

Other techniques, such as a pat down, are an option.

Again, its important to have your stimulator identification card with you when you fly.

Alternatives, such as CT, are usually recommended in case you cannot have MRI.

Summary

Deep brain stimulation is a procedure in which implantable devices deliver electrical impulses to the brain.

It can be used to relieve motor symptoms of Parkinsons disease in some patients.

It has some risks, and there may be mild side effects.

It often allows the person to use less levodopa and have a better quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Deep brain stimulation can often provide a long-term benefit for Parkinsons disease.

That said, its important to note that DBS treats symptoms and not the underlying disease process.

Costs were greater among those who had complications.

The group that received deep brain stimulation had better quality-of-life scores.

This study found that DBS is both beneficial and cost effective for people with Parkinsons disease.

This was compared to only 32% of people in the control group who received medications alone.

In addition, the DBS group had an average increase of 4.6 hours of good symptom control daily.

National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Deep brain stimulation for movement disorders.

American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Deep brain stimulation.

Johns Hopkins Medicine.Deep brain stimulation.

Jankovic J, Mazziota JC, Pomeroy SL, Newman NJ.Bradley and Daroffs neurology in clinical practice.8th ed.

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