How does deep brain stimulation help those with neurological disorders?

Verified by our experts, Dr. Abhidha Shah, Senior Consultant Neurosurgery, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai and Dr. Ravikiran Vutha, Consultant Neurosurgery, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a neurosurgical procedure that uses implanted electrodes to deliver electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain. This can help to improve symptoms of certain neurological disorders, including:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Essential tremor
• Dystonia
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Epilepsy
• Tourette syndrome
• Chronic pain

How does DBS work?

• DBS works by interfering with the abnormal electrical signals in the brain that cause these disorders. The electrodes are implanted in specific brain targets, which are identified using brain imaging and other tests. The electrodes are then connected to a pacemaker-like device that is implanted under the skin in the chest or abdomen.
• The pacemaker device can be programmed to deliver electrical impulses to the brain at different frequencies and intensities. The settings are adjusted based on the individual’s symptoms and response to treatment.

Benefits of DBS

• DBS can be a very effective treatment for people with certain neurological disorders who have not responded to other treatments, such as medication.
• It can improve quality of life by reducing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement.

The risks of DBS vary depending on the individual’s age, health, and the underlying neurological disorder. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of DBS thoroughly with your doctor before deciding whether to have the surgery.

If you are considering DBS, it is important to work with a team of experienced doctors and other healthcare professionals who specialize in this treatment.

The team of neurosurgery experts at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai specialize in deep brain stimulation for various neurological conditions. The team will help you to understand the risks and benefits of DBS, and to decide if it is the right treatment for you.

Connect with our experts, Dr. Abhidha Shah, Senior Consultant Neurosurgery, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai and Dr. Ravikiran Vutha, Consultant Neurosurgery, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai to get an overview on DBS. Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.