Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure for treating movement disorders and some neurological conditions. During the procedure, your doctor will implant thin wires with electrodes targeting certain areas of the brain. These connect to a pulse generator placed under the collarbone, sending electrical pulses to the brain. By interfering with abnormal neurological signals, DBS can help alleviate symptoms and improve motor function. You can learn more about how DBS works here.

DBS has shown efficacy in treating several neurological disorders:

• Parkinson’s Disease (PD): DBS can significantly reduce tremors, rigidity, and slowness associated with Parkinson’s disease. It can provide relief when medications alone are insufficient.

• Essential Tremor (ET): For individuals with severe essential tremor (uncontrollable shaking), DBS can be life changing. It suppresses tremors and enhances motor function.

• Dystonia: DBS helps manage dystonia—a condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and abnormal postures.

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Although less common, DBS has been explored as a treatment option for severe OCD. It targets specific brain circuits associated with obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. 

• Individual variability: DBS outcomes vary from person to person. Risks increase in people aged 70 and older and those with other health conditions (e.g., cerebrovascular disease, high blood pressure). While some experience remarkable improvement, others may see only moderate benefits.

• Adverse effects: Although generally safe, DBS can have side effects such as infection, bleeding, or mood changes. Careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial.

Hear from a real patient on their experience with DBS therapy:

1. DBS therapy can be personalized
   1. DBS allows adjustments to optimize therapy. If needed, it can be turned off or removed entirely. After the initial DBS procedure, patients undergo a programming session where the neurologist or neurosurgeon adjusts the stimulation parameters (such as frequency, amplitude, and pulse width) to optimize symptom control.
   2. Each patient’s response to DBS is unique. Adjustments allow tailoring the therapy to the individual’s needs. In Parkinson’s disease, fine-tuning can reduce tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. As for essential tremor, adjustments target specific tremor frequencies.
2. Regular follow-ups may be needed
   1. Patients typically have periodic follow-up appointments to fine-tune settings based on symptom changes and overall well-being.
3. DBS is reversible
   1. emporary deactivation: If needed, the pulse generator can be turned off temporarily. This is useful for assessing the impact of DBS on symptoms or addressing side effects.
   2. Permanent removal: If DBS becomes ineffective or causes adverse effects, the entire system (electrodes and pulse generator) can be surgically removed and the brain tissue remains unaltered.

If you are struggling with a movement disorder or other neurological condition, DBS may be an option. Talk to your doctor about whether you might be a candidate for this treatment. To see if you qualify for Boston Scientific’s DBS therapy, you can take our quiz here.