Deep Brain Stimulation

[Mike__0__0]

  I was wondering if you had any information about the new neurosurgical treatment for Parkinsons Disease: Deep Brain Stimulation- or where I could find information.
  Thank You
Dear Mike,
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a procedure used to relieve the tremor of Parkinson's disease and other diseases. It consists in inserting an electrode, through a small hole drilled in the skull, into the thalamus (a part of the brain which plays an important role in controlling movements). The target is precisely localized before the procedure using MRI and a frame placed around the head, and the correct placement of the electrode is verified during the procedure. When the electrode is in the right position, it is connected to a pulse generator(similar to a pacemaker) implanted under the skin in the upper part of the chest. After the procedure is finished, all the components of the system are inside the body. The pulse generator can be turned on and off using a specially designed magnet applied on the surface of the skin where the generator is located. The settings of the pulse generator can be adjusted to obtain an optimal response. DBS is increasingly used with success, but a specialist must first determine if a patient is a good candidate for this procedure (i.e. if there are no contra-indications, and if there is a good chance of success). DBS is performed at the Cleveland Clinic. If you are interested, you can schedule an appointment with Dr Erwin Montgomery in the Neurology Department of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. The phone number is [phone].