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In this Article

• Deep brain stimulation introduction
• How does deep brain stimulation work?
• How is deep brain stimulation performed?
• What is subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation?
• What are the advantages of deep brain stimulation?
• How effective is deep brain stimulation?
• What kinds of movement problems are helped by deep brain stimulation?
• What are the risks of deep brain stimulation?
• Is deep brain stimulation experimental?
• Who should consider deep brain stimulation?
• Is age a factor in deep brain stimulation?
• Where should deep brain stimulation be performed?
• Will I be asleep during the deep brain stimulation procedure?
• What should I expect after deep brain stimulation?
• When will I be able to go home after the deep brain stimulation procedure?
• How should I care for the surgical area once I am home?
• Will I have to limit activity following deep brain stimulation surgery?
• Post surgery warning
• Can I use electrical devices?
• Deep Brain Stimulation Index

What Should I Expect After Deep Brain Stimulation?

You may feel tired and sore but will be given medication and kept comfortable after your deep brain stimulation procedure. 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 After the Deep Brain Stimulation Procedure?

The average hospital stay for the first part of the deep brain stimulation 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.

How Should I Care for the Surgical Area Once I Am Home?

• Your stitches or staples will be removed seven to 10 days after surgery.
• Each of the pin sites should be kept covered with band-aids until they are dry. These should be changed every day as necessary.
• You will be able to wash your head with a damp cloth, avoiding the surgical area.
• You may shampoo your hair the day after your stitches or staples are removed, but only very gently.
• You should not scratch or irritate the wound areas.

Will I Have to Limit Activity Following Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery?

• You should not engage in light activities for two weeks after deep brain stimulation surgery. This includes housework and sexual activity.
• You should not engage in heavy activities for four to six weeks after surgery. This includes jogging, swimming, or any physical education classes. Anything strenuous should be avoided to allow your surgical wound to heal properly. If you have any questions about activities, call your doctor before performing them.
• You should not lift more than five pounds for at least two weeks.
• Depending on the type of work you do, you may return to work within four to six weeks.