I have not had the surgery, but my best friend specializes in DBS in Boston, so I know more than most (except the people who have had it). The good news is if it works, it can really make a positive difference. But make sure you discuss with your doctors what symptoms you are trying to control with the surgery, because it will not cure everything. Some of the bad news, is that only around 20% of people are eligible. They will put you through a battery of tests including a grueling memory and psychological test to see if you are a candidate. If you have any cognitive impairment, you most likely will not qualify. My buddy told me just last week that Michael J Fox was NOT a candidate for the surgery. I found that strange, but if the 20% rate is true, then that is why. If you have any other questions, feel free to send me a private message and I'll get you the answers you're looking for.......

My husband took 20 Sinemet before DBS. It was been nearly 3 years so he is back to 5 Sinemet. It worked great, but I think his PD is getting worse. We see DBS doc today.

The tests before hand are cognitive like count backwards from 100 by 7. Very intensive.

Thank you so much!!

Hi, I am responding for my husband. He was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s at age 42. He has had it for 20 years now. Did DBS surgery three years ago. Because he needed to retire early due to Parkinson’s he has Medicare and a supplement so our out-of-pocket was much less. Many benefits, he was taken off several medications (Selegeline and Mirapex) completely, and decreased his Levadopa/Carbadopa. Because he had been on the medication for so long he had lots of dyskinesia and the surgery has completely taken that away no more tremor or dyskinesia. When he goes in for his adjustments on the stimulator they periodically turn it off and instantly all of those side effects come back. It’s pretty unbelievable. Currently struggling with his posture, balance and speech. He has always been very active, a very good golfer at one time butcontinues to golf at least once a week but due to his current balance and walking that has been a little more difficult. Over all, he is glad he did the surgery. If you have other questions we would be more than happy to answer them. Keep on fighting!

Yes it helps my husband had the DBS and he now only takes two Rytary aday