Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease has shown significant success and carries certain risks. Here are the key points:
Success
- Improvement in Motor Symptoms: More than 70% of people with Parkinson's who receive DBS experience significant improvements in their motor symptoms.
- Reduction in Medication: Show Full Answer
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease has shown significant success and carries certain risks. Here are the key points:
Success:
- Improvement in Motor Symptoms: More than 70% of people with Parkinson's who receive DBS experience significant improvements in their motor symptoms.
- Reduction in Medication: DBS may allow you to reduce or eliminate some of your medications.
Safety and Risks:
- Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks including blood clots, blood loss, infection, and stroke.
- Side Effects: Potential side effects include headache, temporary swelling and pain at the implantation site, confusion, difficulty concentrating, seizure, numbness or tingling, lightheadedness, balance and speech problems, muscle tightness, and mood changes.
- Adjustment Period: It may take up to six months of adjusting your DBS settings before experiencing benefits.
Considerations:
- Candidacy: Candidates must have intact cognitive function and be healthy enough to undergo three to six hours of surgery while awake.
- Consultation: Always consult your neurologist to ensure DBS is functioning optimally and to discuss any potential risks and benefits.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the resources provided by MyParkinsonsTeam.
October 13