Is Deep Brain Stimulation Right For You?

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment that involves implanting electrodes into the brain to deliver electrical stimulation, helping alleviate the symptoms associated with movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease. 

For those who struggle to manage their symptoms with medication, DBS is a powerful treatment that can significantly enhance quality of life.

Let’s explore how it works and whether it may be a good option for you or your loved one living with Parkinson’s!

A Brief History of DBS

The use of electrodes to manage tremors and other neurological symptoms dates back thousands of years, but it was only recently that it became a mainstream treatment for Parkinson’s disease. 

One of the most significant advancements in this tech (other than decades of research and development!) is the portability of the electrical stimulation, allowing people to benefit from treatment without having to be attached to a stationary mechanism.

DBS first appeared in mainstream practice for Parkinson’s in the 1980s and was approved by the FDA for the treatment of Parkinson’s tremor in 1997 and Parkinson’s symptoms in 2002.  Since then, it has evolved significantly, with modern systems allowing for customizable and adaptive stimulation.

DBS is now used to treat several disorders, including essential tremor, dystonia, epilepsy, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

How DBS Works

DBS involves surgically implanting electrodes into specific areas of the brain, most commonly the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or the globus pallidus internus (GPi) for Parkinson’s.

These electrodes deliver high-frequency electrical stimulation to the areas of the brain carrying abnormal signals (and thus producing symptoms, like tremors), altering the signals and improving symptoms.

Once the electrodes are placed, they’re connected to a wire, which is connected to a pulse generator (like a pacemaker) and implanted in the chest. 

The placement of the electrodes and implanting of the generator occur across 2-3 separate surgeries. People who undergo DBS receive a controller that allows them to turn the device on or off and track system settings, like battery life.

Once in place, the device delivers controlled electrical impulses to targeted brain regions, helping to regulate the abnormal neural activity that causes Parkinson’s symptoms.

How Effective Is DBS?

DBS does not cure Parkinson’s disease, but it can significantly improve motor symptoms and reduce medication needs. 

It’s used primarily to treat motor symptoms (such as tremor, stiffness, and slowed movement) and side effects caused by medication, but it can also help with certain non-motor symptoms, such as sleep, pain, and urinary issues.

A 2019 study revealed that 75% of people who received DBS felt the procedure helped them manage their symptoms. Additionally, a 2020 study found that DBS reduced the need for medications.

Overall, DBS has a promising track record and is effective in many who undergo the surgery.

Is DBS Safe?

DBS is generally considered safe, but as with all surgeries, it may pose a number of risks, including infection, stroke, bleeding, seizure, and hardware complications. Regular follow-ups and programming adjustments can often minimize or resolve these issues. 

Be sure to talk to your neurologist and care team to best understand the risks and side effects associated with DBS.

How Do I Know If DBS Is Right For Me?

Not every person with Parkinson’s is a good candidate for DBS. Generally, you may be a candidate if:

• You have been diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (not secondary or atypical Parkinsonism) for more than five years
• You have disabling tremors and dyskinesias, and/or experience severe motor fluctuations that don’t respond to alterations to medication
• You respond well to medications like levodopa
• You do not have severe cognitive impairment or uncontrolled depression
• You are physically and mentally fit for surgery

Determining whether or not DBS is right for you should be made with careful consideration, expert guidance, and the support of a multidisciplinary medical team.

If you or a loved one is considering DBS, the following steps should include:

1. Speaking with your neurologist
2. Gathering information about deep brain stimulation and talking about it with others in the PD community
   
   • For more information on current DBS units, visit Abbott, Medtronic, and Boston Scientific's websites.
3. Requesting a referral to a DBS evaluation center
4. Undergoing comprehensive testing to determine candidacy

Each person has unique needs and goals for how DBS may benefit them. Think carefully about what you hope to gain from this surgery, manage expectations, and reach out to your network as much as possible when making this important decision!

DBS: A Great Solution for The Right Person

Deep brain stimulation can be life-changing for the right person with Parkinson’s. It offers hope for those struggling with medication side effects or inconsistent symptom control, allowing them to live their absolute best life despite the challenges of PD.

For more information on DBS or to be connected with the right medical advisor, contact our referral specialist or watch our LTP presentation on Deep Brain Stimulation vs. Focused Ultrasound.

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