Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
UW Health neurologists and neurosurgeons in Madison, Wisconsin, offer deep brain stimulation (DBS) to adults and children as young as seven years of age. This procedure is offered as a treatment for selected patients with Parkinson's disease, essential tremor and dystonia.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) may also be a treatment for selected patients with Parkinson’s disease, torticollis, spasmodic torticollis, Tourette’s syndrome, tremor or hyperkinetic disorders.
The Deep Brain Stimulation Procedure
During the deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedure surgeons, neurologists, neurophysiologists, electroneurodiagnostic specialists and nurses work together to implant a DBS lead (electrode) which contains four electrical contacts into target areas in the brain. The lead from the electrodes is connected to an impulse generator located beneath the skin near the chest, which then delivers electrical impulses to target areas of the brain. The entire system is beneath the skin and not exposed.
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Advantages of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
- Proven as more effective and safer than ablative (during which tissue is removed) surgical procedures
- Long-term complications are fewer than with traditional surgery because traditional surgery involves destroying small parts of the brain, while DBS does not
- Stimulator is adjusted to the needs of patient
- Is reversible, leaving open the option of future alternative surgical approaches
Conditions Treated by Deep Brain Stimulation
Risks of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
There is a 2-3 percent chance of a significant and/or long-term complication due to the DBS surgery. These include bleeding in the brain and infection. Patients with implanted DBS systems do have to exercise caution when potentially exposed to strong electromagnetic fields.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Candidates
The selection process for candidates is complex. Patients with a movement disorder who have not achieved a satisfactory control of symptoms should consult with a movement disorders neurologist.