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What is Deep Brain Stimulation?

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a well-established treatment for movement disorders. Thin electrodes are placed in precise areas deep inside the brain and connected to a small device, similar to a pacemaker, placed under the skin of the chest. The device sends gentle electrical pulses that calm the abnormal signals causing the symptoms.

Which conditions can DBS help?

• Parkinson’s disease, especially when medicines wear off between doses or cause involuntary movements
• Essential tremor that interferes with eating, writing or daily tasks
• Dystonia, which causes twisting movements and abnormal postures

Who is a good candidate?

DBS works best for people whose symptoms still respond to medicine but who have troublesome fluctuations or side effects. A detailed assessment by a neurologist and neurosurgeon, along with brain imaging, decides whether DBS is suitable. It is not used for every patient, and the team will explain the expected benefits honestly.

What happens during treatment?

1. Planning: MRI and CT scans are used to map the exact target in the brain.
2. Electrode placement: the electrodes are placed using stereotactic guidance for millimetre accuracy.
3. Device implantation: the pulse generator is placed under the collarbone.
4. Programming: over the following weeks, the stimulation is adjusted at clinic visits to give the best control.

What results can patients expect?

Many patients see a marked reduction in tremor, stiffness and slowness, and some are able to reduce their medicines. DBS does not cure Parkinson’s disease, but it can greatly improve day-to-day life. The stimulation can be adjusted at any time without further surgery.

Need advice? Our specialists at NENC Hospital, Sonapur, Assam can help. Learn more about Deep Brain Stimulation at NENC, find a doctor, or call our 24/7 helpline at +91 8638241387.

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a doctor about your own health.