Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery in Delhi, India

Here are some reasons why DBS is performed:

• Parkinson's disease: DBS is often used to treat Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and coordination. It can improve symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement) that do not respond well to medication.
• Essential tremor: DBS can also be used to treat essential tremor, a neurological condition that causes uncontrollable shaking of the hands, head, or voice. It can improve tremors and other symptoms that do not respond well to medication.
• Dystonia: DBS can also be used to treat dystonia, a neurological condition that causes involuntary muscle contractions and twisting movements. It can improve symptoms such as spasms, pain, and difficulty with movement.

Some specific factors that may make a person a good candidate for DBS include:

• Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, or OCD
• Symptoms that significantly affect their quality of life and daily activities
• Inability to control symptoms with medication or other treatments
• Good overall health and ability to undergo surgery
• Willingness to comply with post-surgery care and follow-up appointments.

Preparation:

• Before the procedure, the patient will undergo several tests to determine whether they are a good candidate for DBS. These tests may include brain imaging studies, neurological exams, and psychological evaluations. 

• The patient will also need to stop taking certain medications that may interfere with the surgery.
• Patients are advised to stop smoking a few weeks before and after the procedure.

The DBS procedure involves several steps. 

• First, the patient is placed under general anaesthesia. 
• Then, the surgeon creates a small opening in the skull and implants the neurostimulator device in the chest or abdomen. 
• The electrodes are then guided through a small hole in the skull and placed in the specific regions of the brain. 
• The patient is typically awake during this part of the procedure so that the neurosurgeon can test the electrode placement and adjust the stimulation settings to ensure optimal results.

Risks of deep brain stimulation may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Stroke
• Device malfunction- The stimulation settings may also need to be adjusted over time to ensure optimal results.

After the procedure, the patient may need to stay in the hospital for several days for observation. 

• The surgeon will provide specific instructions on post-operative care and follow-up visits. 
• It may take several weeks or months for the full benefits of DBS to be realized. 
• Regular monitoring and adjustments to the stimulation settings may be necessary to ensure the best possible outcomes.
• Patients are advised not to engage in strenuous activities, lift heavy objects or operate heavy machinery for a few weeks.

Q1: What is the success rate of DBS surgery?

A: The success rate of deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery varies depending on the condition being treated, the extent of it, the patient's general health levels and lifestyle.

Q2: What are the side effects of deep brain stimulation?

A: The most common side effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) include temporary pain and swelling at the site of the surgery, as well as temporary numbness or tingling in the fingers or face. Other potential side effects can include infection, bleeding, and problems with the device itself. In rare cases, DBS can cause changes in mood or behaviour.

Q3: How long does deep brain stimulation surgery last?

A: The actual deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery typically takes a few hours, but patients may need to be in the hospital for a few days or longer to monitor their recovery and adjust the stimulation settings.

Q4: Can DBS change your personality?

A: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is generally not known to change a patient's personality. However, some patients may experience changes in mood or behaviour after the surgery, especially if the stimulation is not properly adjusted. Patients and their families should be aware of this possibility and discuss any concerns with their doctor.

Q5: How much does deep brain stimulation cost?

A5: The cost of deep brain stimulation (DBS) can vary widely depending on factors such as the specific condition being treated, the extent of the condition and the location and experience of the surgeon.

Q6: What can I expect after DBS surgery?

A: After deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, patients can expect to feel some discomfort or soreness at the site of the surgery and may experience temporary numbness or tingling in the fingers or face. It can take several weeks or months for the full effects of the stimulation to be felt, and patients may need to have the settings adjusted over time. Patients should also expect to attend regular follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the stimulation.

Q7: What does stimulation do to the brain?

A: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) works by using an implanted device to deliver electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain. The stimulation can help to regulate abnormal brain activity and improve symptoms of movement disorders, such as tremors or rigidity. The exact mechanism by which DBS works has yet to be fully understood, but it is thought to involve changes in the activity of certain brain circuits.

Reviewed by Dr. Ashish Gupta, Senior Director - Neurosurgery, Spine Surgery.