Deep brain stimulation is the delivery of electrical impulses to certain brain cells via implanted electrodes. A neurostimulator, implanted in your chest area, sends an electrical signal up through a wire under your skin to these electrodes. And the amount of stimulation to your brain is adjustable.
Deep brain stimulation is being used to treat various neurological symptoms caused by these health conditions:
- anxiety
- dystonia
- depression
- morbid obesity
- essential tremors
- multiple sclerosis
- cluster headaches
- Tourette syndrome
- Parkinson’s disease
- chronic neuralgia pain
- obsessive compulsive disorder
Typically this form of treatment is used after other treatments fail. And deep brain stimulation is still in the experimental phase for some of these health conditions, therefore it may not be available for you yet.
Deep brain stimulation surgery is done in two phases because of a change in sleep state. Phase one determines the precise location the brain responsible for your symptoms. This is accomplished by using highly sophisticated computerized brain-mapping technology while you’re awake. Phase two implants the electrodes, neurostimulator and wiring connecting the two, which is done while you’re asleep.
Deep brains stimulation surgery is considered quite safe and effective. But as with most treatments, there are some potential risks and side effects, like:
- coma
- seizures
- dizziness
- brain edema
- brain infection
- muscle weakness
- surgical wound infection
- jolt, shock like sensation
- temporary face, limb tingling
- allergic reaction to the implant
- confusion, concentration issues
- memory, speech, vision problems
- loss of balance, reduced coordination
- temporary pain, inflammation at implantation site
- brain hemorrhage, hematoma can cause paralysis, stroke
- cerebrospinal fluid leakage can lead to headaches, meningitis
Several of these deep brain stimulation outcomes may be mild and can be reversed with surgery if necessary. Also, antibiotics will be given to prevent a possibility of infection.
