Deep Brain Stimulation: Effective Treatment for Parkinson's & Epilepsy

Deep brain stimulation or DBS uses an implanted device to deliver electrical current directly to the specific region of the brain which stimulates brain cells in that area specifically. It is used to treat conditions like Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.

What are the indications of Deep Brain stimulation?

 

The indications are deep brain stimulation or DBS are:

• Parkinson’s disease

• Epilepsy

• Dystonia

• Essential tremor

• Treatment-resistant epilepsy

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD resistant to medicines.

What is the procedure of deep brain stimulation?

Before deep brain stimulation

• Investigations required are Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT).

• These investigational reports aid in deciding the location for placement of the wires for deep brain stimulation.

• The doctor reviews the medication history.

• Specific instructions are given to the patient to prepare for the procedure.

• No solid food for at least eight hours and no liquids for at least two hours before the procedure is recommended.

During deep brain stimulation (DBS)

The steps involved in the procedure of deep brain stimulation could be explained as:

• Insertion of stimulation leads into each side of your brain ( same /separate times).

• Implantation of the stimulator battery called pulse generator under upper chest skin.

• Hairs on the scalp are shaved to place the head into a special frame. This frame holds the head still.

• The intra-operative CT scanner takes brain images and identifies the trajectory used for the electrode placement.

• Placement of leads. The neurosurgeon ask questions like reading or looking at pictures to check that leads are placed on the right place.

• CT scan is done to check the lead placement.

• Placement of pulse generator.

After deep brain stimulation

• Regular follow-up.

• Regular doctor consultation in case of discomfort experienced by the patient.

• Proper following of instructions given by the doctor.

Future scope and possibilities of Deep brain stimulation

There is a possibility that Deep brain stimulation may benefit conditions like:

• Schizophrenia

• Cluster headaches

• Addiction

• Pain disorders

• Tourette syndrome

However, it is still under research to treat these conditions using DBS.

Message from Yapita Health

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a safe and effective surgical procedure. It improves the life quality of patients suffering from movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, essential tremors, and dystonia.

The benefits of deep brain stimulation are:

• Improve mobility.

• Reduce tremors

• Reduce stiffness

• Improve mood

• Improve cognition

Deep brain stimulation is a safe and effective therapeutic option to treat Parkinson’s and epilepsy when these neurological conditions do not respond well to treatment. Book an appointment with our best Neurologist and discuss the treatment plan further if your loved one is suffering from movement disorder and not responding well to treatment.

We will help you further and assist you throughout your treatment journey.

Contact us for more details.