A key advantage of DBS is that stimulation can be adjusted after surgery to help balance symptom benefit and side effects.
Stage One: Electrode Placement
Thin electrodes are placed into carefully planned brain targets using imaging and precise surgical guidance. Depending on the patient, target, and surgical approach, implantation may be performed awake with clinical testing or asleep under general anesthesia.
Stage Two: Implanting the Stimulation System
In a second stage, an extension wire and an implanted pulse generator are placed, commonly beneath the skin of the chest. Timing and whether stages are combined vary by treatment plan.
Programming and Long-Term Care
After healing, the device is activated and programmed. Settings can be refined during subsequent visits, and medication adjustments may be coordinated with the treating neurologist.
Potential Advantages
DBS is programmable, can often be adjusted as needs change, and may reduce selected movement symptoms and improve day-to-day function in appropriate candidates. It does require surgery, device maintenance, and follow-up.
Planning the Next Step
Decisions about testing, surgery, and device-based therapy require an individual clinical assessment. Discuss expected benefits, risks, alternatives, recovery, and follow-up with your treating team.
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