Parkinson’s Disease Surgery (Deep Brain Stimulation - DBS)

Overview

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. The condition is caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain, leading to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movement. While Parkinson's disease cannot be cured, there are treatments that help manage its symptoms. One such treatment is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a surgical procedure that has proven effective in improving the quality of life for many individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Why Parkinson’s Disease Surgery Treatment is Required?

• Control Symptoms: DBS helps control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, especially when medications are no longer as effective.
• Advanced Stages: It is often recommended in the later stages of Parkinson’s when other treatments are insufficient.
• Minimize Medication Side Effects: DBS can reduce the need for medications and the side effects associated with long-term medication use.

Key Advantages of Deep Brain Stimulation - DBS Treatment

• Improved Movement: DBS can improve motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness and slowness of movement.
• Reduced Medication Dependency: It may reduce the need for medications, leading to fewer side effects from drugs.
• Quality of Life: Many patients experience significant improvements in daily functioning, mood and overall quality of life.
• Minimal Invasive: Compared to other forms of surgery, DBS is minimally invasive, requiring only small incisions.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before DBS Treatment

• Consultation with Specialists: Your doctor will assess your overall health, discuss your symptoms, and determine if DBS is the right treatment for you.
• Brain Imaging: You may undergo MRI or CT scans to map the specific areas in your brain that need stimulation.
• Medication Review: Your doctor will review your current medications and adjust them as necessary before surgery.
• Prepare for Hospital Stay: You will likely stay in the hospital for a few days following the procedure for observation.

How Parkinson’s Disease Surgery (DBS) Treatment is Performed?

• Anesthesia: You will be given general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation to ensure comfort.
• Brain Mapping: Your surgeon will use brain imaging techniques to precisely locate the areas responsible for motor symptoms.
• Implantation: A small device (neurostimulator) is implanted under the skin in the chest, and leads are placed in specific parts of the brain.
• Activation: After recovery, the device is activated to send electrical impulses to the brain to reduce Parkinson’s disease symptoms.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

Expect to undergo brain scans and a thorough evaluation by your medical team. You will also discuss the benefits and risks of the surgery.

2. During the Procedure:

The procedure typically takes several hours. You will be awake during the operation to help ensure the device is positioned correctly and to monitor your response to stimulation.

3. After the Procedure:

Recovery will involve a short hospital stay. The neurostimulator will be adjusted to ensure optimal functioning. You may experience immediate symptom relief, although it may take a few months for the full effect.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the site of implantation.
• Bleeding or Stroke: There is a slight risk of bleeding in the brain, which could lead to a stroke.
• Device Malfunction: The neurostimulator may require adjustments or even replacement over time.
• Cognitive or Mood Changes: In some cases, patients may experience mood changes, confusion, or problems with speech.

Results/Outcomes

• Symptom Relief: Many patients experience significant improvements in motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movements.
• Long-term Benefits: DBS can continue to provide relief from symptoms for years, though adjustments may be required over time.
• Improved Life Quality: DBS offers patients the opportunity to regain more independence and improve their quality of life.