Pros of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Surgery
- Symptom Improvement: More than 70% of people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) who receive DBS experience significant improvements in their motor symptoms
- Medication Reduction: DBS may allow you to reduce or eliminate some of your medications.
- Customizable: The neurologist Show Full Answer
Pros of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Surgery:
- Symptom Improvement: More than 70% of people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) who receive DBS experience significant improvements in their motor symptoms.
- Medication Reduction: DBS may allow you to reduce or eliminate some of your medications.
- Customizable: The neurologist can adjust the DBS settings to optimize symptom control.
Cons of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Surgery:
- Surgery Risks: Any surgery carries risks, including blood clots, blood loss, infection, breathing problems, reactions to medication, and heart attack or stroke during the surgery. Rarely, DBS surgery can cause seizures.
- Side Effects: Possible side effects include headache, temporary swelling and pain at the implantation site, confusion, difficulty concentrating, numbness or tingling, lightheadedness, balance and speech problems, muscle tightness, or mood changes.
- Adjustment Period: It may take as long as six months of adjusting your DBS settings before you experience benefits from the surgery.
- Not a Cure: DBS can relieve motor symptoms but is not a cure for Parkinson’s Disease.
- Device Issues: The DBS device may be turned on or off by some security screening systems, and if the devices become infected, they may need to be removed surgically.
Additional Considerations:
- Post-Surgery Care: You will need to stay in close communication with your neurologist to ensure that your DBS is functioning optimally.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid light activities for the first two weeks and heavier activities for four to six weeks after surgery.
- Battery Life: The battery for your DBS should last three to five years.
Always consult your neurologist to discuss whether DBS is a suitable option for you, considering your age and the duration of your Parkinson’s Disease.
July 9, 2024
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