Deep brain stimulation
With deep brain stimulation, surgeons implant a device that sends electrical signals to the areas of your brain that control movement. This can ease neuromuscular symptoms, such as tremors and stiffness.
Deep brain stimulation in Arlington, TX
Deep brain stimulation is used when a neurological condition cannot be adequately controlled.
Medical City Arlington provides DBS evaluations, surgery and programming for patients who no longer respond to medications traditionally used to control tremors.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Overview and Common Questions
What is Deep Brain Stimulation?
A patient might seek Deep Brain Stimulation when symptoms of a neurological condition such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, or dystonia are no longer adequately controlled with medication or cause significant side effects. It is typically considered when symptoms interfere with daily functioning and quality of life despite optimized medical therapy. DBS, also known as deep brain stimulation, may be recommended after a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether DBS surgery or deep brain stimulation surgery is appropriate. For many individuals, DBS therapy can help reduce symptoms, improve motor control, and decrease medication dependence, particularly in cases such as DBS for Parkinson’s where symptom fluctuations become difficult to manage.
What can a patient expect during a deep brain stimulation procedure?
During a DBS procedure, or deep brain stimulation surgery, a patient can expect carefully planned steps that involve placing thin electrodes into targeted areas of the brain to address abnormal signaling. DBS surgery is typically performed with advanced imaging and monitoring to ensure precise electrode placement, and parts of the procedure may be done while the patient is awake to assess symptom response. Once the electrodes are in place, a small neurostimulator is implanted under the skin of the chest and connected to the brain leads. After surgery, deep brain stimulation therapy is gradually programmed and adjusted over several visits to optimize symptom control. For many individuals undergoing DBS for Parkinson’s, this personalized tuning process is key to achieving the best possible improvement in daily function.
What is the success rate of deep brain stimulation (DBS)?
The success rate of DBS varies by condition, but studies consistently show that about 70–80% of appropriately selected patients experience significant symptom improvement. For DBS for Parkinson’s, deep brain stimulation commonly reduces motor symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, and medication “off” time by 40–60% or more. DBS therapy is also highly effective for essential tremor and dystonia, often leading to substantial and sustained symptom relief. It’s important to note that DBS surgery does not cure the underlying disease, but deep brain stimulation surgery can greatly improve quality of life when medications are no longer sufficient. Outcomes depend on factors such as diagnosis, disease progression, surgical precision, and postoperative programming.
How long does deep brain stimulation (DBS) last?
DBS, or deep brain stimulation, is designed to provide long-term symptom relief, with benefits from deep brain stimulation therapy often lasting many years when properly managed. While the effects of DBS surgery and deep brain stimulation surgery can remain effective as conditions progress, the implanted device requires ongoing programming and periodic battery replacement. For patients receiving DBS for Parkinson’s, symptom control can be sustained long term, though adjustments to DBS therapy may be needed over time.
Who is a good candidate for deep brain stimulation (DBS)?
A good candidate for DBS, or deep brain stimulation, is typically someone with Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, or dystonia whose symptoms are no longer well controlled with medication, but who still respond to those medications. Candidates for DBS surgery or deep brain stimulation surgery should be in overall good health, have realistic expectations, and undergo a thorough neurological and psychological evaluation. DBS therapy is especially effective for carefully selected patients seeking DBS for Parkinson’s who experience significant motor fluctuations or medication side effects.