Deep Brain Stimulation

Published with the inputs from Dr Sujith Ovallath, Senior Consultant, Neurology , Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kannur and Kozhikode

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a treatment in which electrodes are placed in specific areas of the brain and connected to a battery-operated device placed below the clavicle. The system delivers small electrical impulses to the targeted area of the brain.

DBS has been used to help reduce symptoms such as tremor and stiffness in Parkinson's disease. According to the doctor, the treatment may also be used for selected patients with other neurological conditions, depending on their condition and response to other treatments.

What is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?

Deep Brain Stimulation, or DBS, is a treatment that involves three main components:

• An electrode placed in a specific area of the brain
• A battery-operated device placed below the clavicle
• A connection between the electrode and the device

The system delivers small electrical impulses to the targeted area of the brain.

How does Deep Brain Stimulation help patients with Parkinson's disease?

According to the doctor, small electrical impulses delivered to the brain can help reduce symptoms such as tremor and stiffness in Parkinson's disease.

Who may be considered for DBS in Parkinson's disease?

The doctor explains that DBS may be considered when Parkinson's disease has been present for approximately five years and medications are no longer providing adequate benefit.

Patients are assessed before treatment. The evaluation includes comparing the patient's condition during the medication-off period with their response after taking levodopa. Patients who show approximately 30% improvement and are responsive to levodopa are generally considered for DBS.

Which Parkinson's symptoms may respond to DBS?

According to the doctor, DBS may be beneficial for patients with:

• Tremor
• Stiffness
• Dyskinesia

However, the doctor notes that DBS may not be as effective for freezing, a condition in which the patient experiences difficulty walking.

Can DBS be used for conditions other than Parkinson's disease?

According to the doctor, DBS has also been found to be effective for selected patients with:

• Primary dystonia

• Benign essential tremor

• Epilepsy that does not respond despite the use of three or more medications in patients above 18 years of age

The doctor also mentions the use of DBS in Meige syndrome, tic disorders, post-stroke rehabilitation, dementia, treatment-resistant depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and cluster headache.

What are directional leads in DBS?

Directional leads are a newer development in DBS technology that allow the direction of electrical stimulation to be controlled externally.

What are newer developments in DBS technology?

According to the doctor, newer DBS technologies include electrodes designed to reduce concerns associated with MRI, directional leads that allow external control of the direction of electrical stimulation, devices that can record electrical signals from the brain and automatically adjust stimulation, and remote sensing technology that allows treatment parameters to be modified from a distance.

Is every patient with Parkinson's disease suitable for DBS?

No. Patients are assessed before being considered for DBS. According to the doctor, patient selection includes evaluating the response to levodopa and comparing scores during the medication-off period with scores after taking levodopa.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you have Parkinson's disease or another neurological condition and would like to know whether Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may be a suitable treatment option, consult the Neurology specialists at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) for a detailed evaluation.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) to speak with our experts and receive guidance based on your individual condition.