Deep Brain Stimulation (cont.)

Who Should Consider DBS?

There are many important issues to be addressed when considering deep brain stimulation. These issues should be discussed with a movement disorders expert or a specially trained neurologist. A movement disorders expert is someone who has trained specifically in movement disorders.

One of the most important criteria is that the person has had an adequate trial of medications. Surgery is not recommended if medications can adequately control the disease. However, surgery should be considered for people who do not achieve satisfactory control with medications. Talk to your doctor to see if DBS is right for you.

Is Age a Factor?

DBS has been successful in treating people of different ages. However, each person should be assessed individually as to their stamina and overall health before considering surgery.

Where Should the Procedure be Performed?

The first and most important recommendation is that the DBS procedure is performed in a place where there is a multi-disciplinary team of experts. This means neurologists, neurosurgeons and neurophysiologists who have experience and specialized training in performing these types of surgeries.

The next most important consideration is how the surgery is done. Different centers may perform the procedure in different ways. It is very important to ask how the target (the thalamus or globus pallidus) is localized. It is clear that the chances of benefit and the risks of complications are directly related to how close the electrode is to the correct target.

Will I Be Asleep During the Procedure?

Throughout most of the procedure you will remain awake. This allows the surgical team to interact with you when testing the effects of the stimulation. Small amounts of local anesthetic (pain-relieving medication) are given in sensitive areas. The vast majority of people experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.

What Should I Expect After DBS?

You may feel tired and sore but will be given medication and kept comfortable. Also, you may have irritation or soreness around the stitches and pin sites.

As with any surgery, there are some guidelines and limitations that you should follow after DBS. Be sure to discuss these with your doctor and ask questions before surgery. Understanding what you will be experiencing and knowing what to expect afterward can help ease some of the natural anxiety that comes with any medical procedure.

When Will I Be Able to Go Home?

The average hospital stay for the first part of the DBS surgery is two to three days. For the second part of the surgery one week later, you will be in the hospital for less than 24 hours.

Next: How should I care for the surgical area once I am home? »

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