Deep brain stimulation called DBS or brain pacemaker,
- Parkinson’s disease,
- Essential tremor,
- Dystonia
and it is a special brain surgical procedure that uses implanted electrodes and electrical stimulation in the treatment of movement disorders associated with other neurological conditions. When the daily living activities of these patients are prevented and the medications are insufficient, Neurosurgeons and Neurosurgeons may recommend brain pacemaker application.
The movement-related symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions are caused by irregular electrical signals in the areas of the brain that control movement. After a successful brain pacemaker operation, the irregular signals that cause the patient’s tremors and other movement symptoms are stopped.
After a series of tests that determine the optimal placement, we insert one or more wires called “leads” into the brain. The electrodes are connected by an insulated cable extension to a very small neurostimulator (electrical generator) implanted under the person’s collarbone, similar to a pacemaker. Continuous pulses of electric current from the neurostimulator pass through the wires to the brain.
A few weeks after the neurostimulator is inserted, we program it to transmit an electrical signal. This programming process requires regular control to ensure that the current is properly adjusted and provides effective results. When adjusting the device, we seek an optimal balance between improving symptom control and limiting side effects.
Pacemaker therapy is more than just an operation. A series of evaluations, procedures, and consultations are required before and after the operation. The application of brain pacemakers for Parkinson’s disease has been approved by the American FDA. However, we do not recommend brain pacemaker surgery for every patient living with Parkinson’s or other movement disorders. With teams specialized in movement disorders, we determine after all the necessary checks whether a patient is a good candidate for a brain battery.
