Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder, affects movement, causing tremors, stiffness, slowness, and balance problems. While medication can manage symptoms in the early stages, their effectiveness can decrease over time, and side effects can become challenging.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a promising treatment option for individuals with Parkinson’s disease who are experiencing motor fluctuations and other complications.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: A Disruption in Movement
Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in controlling movement. As dopamine levels decline, the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s disease appear.
Deep Brain Stimulation: A Neurological Intervention
DBS is a surgical procedure that involves implanting a small, pacemaker-like device that sends electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain that control movement. These electrical impulses help regulate the abnormal brain activity that causes Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
DBS does not cure Parkinson’s disease, but it can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for carefully selected individuals.
The procedure involves the following steps:
- Brain Mapping:Before surgery, detailed brain imaging, such as MRI, is used to identify the precise brain targets for stimulation. These targets are typically the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or the globus pallidus interna (GPi), both of which are involved in movement control.
- Electrode Implantation:During surgery, thin wires called electrodes are implanted into the targeted brain regions. The procedure is typically performed while the patient is awake to allow for neurological testing to ensure accurate placement.
- Pulse Generator Implantation:A small pulse generator, similar to a pacemaker, is implanted under the skin in the chest. This generator sends electrical impulses to the electrodes in the brain.
- Connecting Wires:Wires are tunneled under the skin to connect the electrodes in the brain to the pulse generator in the chest.
- Programming:After surgery, the pulse generator is programmed to deliver the appropriate electrical stimulation. The settings are adjusted over time to optimize symptom control and minimize side effects.
Benefits of DBS for Parkinson’s Disease
DBS can provide significant benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, including:
- Reduced Tremors:DBS is highly effective in reducing tremors, which are often a debilitating symptom of Parkinson’s disease.
- Decreased Rigidity and Stiffness:DBS can help alleviate muscle stiffness and rigidity, making movement easier.
- Improved Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement):DBS can improve bradykinesia, allowing for smoother and faster movements.
- Reduced Dyskinesias (Involuntary Movements):DBS can help reduce dyskinesias, which are involuntary movements caused by long-term use of Parkinson’s medications.
- Decreased Medication Needs:DBS can often allow individuals to reduce their dosage of Parkinson’s medications, which can, in turn, reduce medication-related side effects.
- Improved Quality of Life:By reducing symptoms and improving function, DBS can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
Who Is a Candidate for DBS?
DBS is not suitable for everyone with Parkinson’s disease.
Ideal candidates typically:
- Have Parkinson’s disease that is responsive to levodopa, a common Parkinson’s medication.
- Experience motor fluctuations, e.g., “on-off” periods, when medication effectiveness wears off.
- Develop dyskinesiasthat are difficult to manage with medication.
- Are in relatively good overall health and can tolerate surgery.
Your Partner in Neurological Health
The physicians at Webster Surgical Hospital are committed to providing quality neurological care for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. They offer advanced Parkinson’s treatment in Houston, including deep brain stimulation, to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
On the Deep Brain Stimulation page, you can scroll down and find a physician who’s right for you. Then click their link to visit their website and make an appointment.