Deep brain stimulation surgery has become prevalent in the last few years. The procedure is recommended by many experts and has enough studies to prove its effectiveness.
Medically reviewed by Regina Victoria Boyles, MD · Pediatrics
Deep brain stimulation surgery has become prevalent in the last few years. The procedure is recommended by many experts and has enough studies to prove its effectiveness.
In this article, we will comprehensively talk about deep brain stimulation surgery, why patients with Parkinson’s disease are advised to go for this procedure, and what precautions to follow later.
Parkinson disease (Parkinson’s disease) is a nervous system disorder that affects everyday movement, for example, walking, talking, and even resting. This condition develops over time and can sometimes take years before it completely shows signs in the body.
The most common symptom of Parkinson’s disease are tremors, which means vigorous shaking in the body. These begin in a limb such as your hand. For a tremor to show, your body does not have to be in a mobile state, it can occur even while you’re resting.
Other symptoms of PD include:
Parkinson’s disease is caused due to the permanent breakage or destruction of certain neurons in the brain. These neurons are responsible for the production of dopamine, a chemical messenger. When the dopamine levels decrease in your body it leads to the above-mentioned symptoms of PD.
The exact cause of this disease is still under research, but studies suggest a link between genes and environmental triggers such as pollution. Though, there are cases without the presence of either of these factors diagnosed with PD.
Deep brain stimulation surgery is a treatment available for PD patients due to the erratic changes in their movement.
This form of treatment is reserved for those Parkinson’s disease patients that don’t respond well to medication.
The first deep brain stimulation surgery was done in the Philippines in 2006. As of this writing, further data is needed locally on the effectivity of this surgery. Researchers aim to monitor whether this would result in improved mobility and medication dosage reduction.
Since the disease limits everyday activity on a prolonged basis, PD can only get worse with age if treatment is not undertaken well in time.
Deep brain stimulation surgery is a neurological procedure that works like a pacemaker, but for the brain.
Deep brain stimulation surgery can sometimes take one visit or several visits to the doctor. This is because it is a well-programmed procedure that your brain should respond to every time you get a tremor.
Once the electrodes are properly placed in connection with the neurostimulator, it starts responding.
The side effects of deep brain stimulation surgery are limited but do exist.
These include dizziness, slurred speech, limb muscle weakness, muscle contractions, numbness, or shock sensation. Possible risks such as seizures, bleeding in the brain, or even coma are also part of the list.
Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly understand this neurological procedure. Your doctor will take a few tests to determine the best placement of the electrodes.
Hence, this procedure is not a swift one. It can take some time before you start seeing the results.
Since this procedure requires a considerable amount of time and investment, patients who are willing to go through this route should consider it.
Deep brain stimulation surgery can involve multiple visits to the doctor for procedures, evaluations, and systematic consultations.
Though, it is essential to understand that DBS surgery does not lead to a complete cure of Parkinson’s disease. It is merely a way to treat and manage your symptoms, not get rid of them.
There are seven types of Parkinson’s disease patients that qualify and benefit from deep brain stimulation surgery:
If you decide to go for deep brain stimulation surgery, there are certain precautions that you will need to keep in mind. They are:
Deep brain stimulation surgery is a calculated procedure that requires physical tests, evaluations, and consultations to make it work. The response of DBS for Parkinsonism can vary from person to person.
Consult your doctor and understand thoroughly how to go forward with this neurological procedure and whether you qualify for it or not.
Learn more about Parkinson disease here.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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