Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's Disease involves the following steps and considerations:
Surgery Details
1. First Surgery:
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthetic to numb the scalp.
- Procedure:
- A stereotactic frame keeps the head still.
- Electrodes are placed in the Show Full Answer
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's Disease involves the following steps and considerations:
Surgery Details:
1. First Surgery:
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthetic to numb the scalp.
- Procedure:
- A stereotactic frame keeps the head still.
- Electrodes are placed in the brain.
- A neurostimulator is placed near the collarbone.
- A wire connects the electrodes to the neurostimulator.
- Hospital Stay: 2 to 3 days.
2. Second Surgery:
- Timing: About a week after the first surgery.
- Anesthesia: General anesthetic.
- Procedure:
- A pulse generator with batteries is placed on the chest wall.
- A wire connects the pulse generator to the neurostimulator.
- Hospital Stay: Less than 24 hours.
Post-Surgery Care:
- Wound Care: Instructions provided by a doctor or nurse.
- Antibiotics: To prevent infection.
- Activity Restrictions:
- Avoid light activities (e.g., sex, cleaning) for 2 weeks.
- Avoid heavy activities (e.g., exercise, work) for 4 to 6 weeks.
Activation and Adjustment:
- Programming: Done by a neurologist a few weeks after surgery.
- Control: The device can be turned on/off with a remote control.
- Battery Life: 3 to 5 years.
- Medication: May still be needed; consult a neurologist before making changes.
Potential Benefits:
- Symptom Relief: Significant improvement in motor symptoms for over 70% of patients.
- Medication Reduction: Possible reduction or elimination of some medications.
Risks and Side Effects:
- Surgical Risks: Blood clots, blood loss, infection, breathing problems, reactions to medication, heart attack, stroke, seizures.
- Device Risks: Infection, malfunction, interference with security systems.
- Stimulation Side Effects: Numbness, tingling, lightheadedness, balance and speech problems, muscle tightness, mood changes.
Important Considerations:
- Candidacy: Extensive testing to determine suitability.
- Cognitive Function: Must be intact.
- Health: Must be healthy enough for surgery.
- Communication: Stay in close contact with your neurologist.
For more detailed information, you can visit the source: [Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's Disease | MyParkinsonsTeam](https://www.MyParkinsonsTeam.com/treatments/dee...).
July 30