More than 40 million people in the United States have a movement disorder, a type of neurological condition that causes abnormal movements. In some cases, people with movement disorders can be treated using deep brain stimulation.
Deep brain stimulation, usually shortened to DBS, has been around since the 1950s, but became a more recognized option for treating Parkinson’s disease in recent decades. What is DBS and how is it used? We explain more below.
What deep brain stimulation is
Deep brain stimulation involves the implantation of a medical device known as an implantable pulse generator (IPG). This device then delivers electrical pulses to electrodes (or leads) in certain parts of the brain that control movement.
If you’re familiar with what a pacemaker does in the heart, an IPG works similarly in the brain. These targeted electrical pulses block the abnormal nerve signals that cause movement disorders, improving or even relieving symptoms.
While first approved to treat the tremor associated with Parkinson’s disease, DBS has since been approved for the treatment of advanced Parkinson’s symptoms, the treatment of earlier stages of Parkinson’s disease, and the treatment of other conditions affecting the brain.
Who can benefit from deep brain stimulation
As mentioned above, DBS is an FDA-approved treatment for Parkinson’s disease. It’s also approved for the treatment of:
- Dystonia, a disorder causing the muscles to involuntarily contract
- Essential tremor, a disorder causing involuntary trembling in the body
- Medication-resistant epilepsy
- Medication-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder
It’s possible that deep brain stimulation might also be effective in treating other neurological or mental health conditions. Researchers are currently studying whether it could be useful as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, cluster headaches, and medication-resistant depression, among other conditions.
While it can be used in treating other conditions, DBS is still most commonly used as a treatment option for Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. It can help control a wide range of symptoms, including involuntary muscle contractions, jerking movements of the arms or legs, stiffness, and walking abnormalities.
Deep brain stimulation is typically recommended only after other treatment options, such as medication, have proven ineffective in controlling symptoms or if side effects make existing treatment intolerable.
What to expect from deep brain stimulation
Deep brain stimulation usually involves two procedures—electrodes are placed into specific parts of the brain and then the IPG is implanted under the collarbone or in the abdomen. The electrodes are guided into place using imaging scans and sometimes recordings of brain cell activity.
After the initial surgical procedure, the device will be programmed during several followup visits with a neurologist. There’s some trial and error to determine what will work best to relieve an individual patient’s symptoms. Over time, the DBS settings can be tweaked to help the device work more efficiently.
Because movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease are often “progressive,” meaning they worsen over time, DBS can also be adjusted as needed to handle worsening symptoms or the emergence of new symptoms. If new symptoms are related to a different part of the brain, additional electrodes can be placed in those areas.
Deep brain stimulation is usually successful at reducing symptoms, though you may still need to continue taking medications. Because the electrical impulses can help minimize symptoms, though, you may be able to reduce the amount of medication you’re taking, along with associated side effects.
Following the implantation of an IPG, it’s important to carefully follow the instructions you’re given by a neurologist or other members of your care team. These instructions will contain clear guidelines about what you can and can’t do in the aftermath of surgery, including physical activity, activities of daily living like household chores, and caring for the surgical site.
IPG devices now contain long-lasting batteries, allowing them to operate for nearly a decade in some cases. When the battery begins to wear down, an additional procedure will be needed to replace the battery.
Next steps
Neurologists with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group offer care for a full range of neurological conditions, including diagnosing and continued modification of the DBS system after implanted. Call 770-219-6520 or click here for more information.