No cure, no hope?

Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson’s allows for more opportunities.

By: Jenny Xiao

Although there is no cure at the moment, there are treatments to reduce the side effects and symptoms of Parkinson’s. In this article, we will focus on specifically the Deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedure.

What is Deep brain stimulation (DBS)?

DBS is a surgical procedure that can reduce or eliminate some symptoms of Parkinson's disease. During the procedure, an electrode(a thin wire) is implanted into the brain using Magnetic resonance imaging(MRI). The electrode then delivers constant stimulation to the brain called the basal ganglia(functions include motor control, learning, cognition, and emotion). Implantation of an impulse generator battery(called an IPG) is also required; it acts similar to a heart pacemaker. The IPG is normally placed under the collarbone or in the abdomen and delivers electrical stimulation to target areas in the brain. Those who undergo DBS surgery are generally given a controller to turn the device on or off and to review basic parameters. However, this device requires reprogramming by a trained clinician and has unwanted side effects. Due to the limitations of DBS, it has led researchers to look for more ways to improve it.

DBS are for what kinds of people?

Since DBS treats certain aspects of Parkinson’s, DBS is most effective for those with Parkinson’s tumor, those who have advanced symptoms, and people who have had PD for at least four years and have motor symptoms not perfectly controlled with medication. However, DBS will be most effective for those experiencing disabling tremors, wearing-off spells, and medication-induced dyskinesias--medication influenced abnormal involuntary movements.

Precautions

Due to DBS being a procedure that is very risky and involves the brain, there will be small risks of infection, stroke, bleeding, or seizures.

References

Spears, C., & Heston, A. (n.d.). Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Parkinson's Foundation. Retrieved January 22, 2025, from https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/surgical-treatment-options/deep-brain-stimulation

Wonders, C. P. (2018, May 29). Self-tuning brain implant could help treat patients with parkinson’s disease. National Institutes of Health. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/self-tuning-brain-implant-could-help-treat-patients-parkinsons-disease