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Deep brain stimulation

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Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure used to treat severe essential tremor and tremor, rigidity and bradykinesia (slow movement) associated with Parkinson's disease.

The surgery involves the implantation of an electrode to the thalamus of the brain powered by a battery-operated neurotransmitter placed under the collar bone. The electrode targets the substantia nigra in interfering with the electrical signals that cause tremors, rigidity or bradykinesia. After the surgery is completed, an expert calibrates the unit in order to maximize its effectiveness.

Typically DBS is performed unilaterally on the side of the brain most debilitated by the disease, but in some cases it is performed bilaterally in a single operation.

DBS has been found to significantly alleviate symptoms in two thirds of Parkinson's patients, and has recently being used more frequently to treat cases of severe essential tremor.

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