May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Brain and Nervous System Deep Brain stimulation
Deep Brain stimulation |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Recently a cousin of mine underwent DBS after suffering a brain bleed. At first the surgery was successful, but he seemed to relapse and medication doesn't help with his tremors. I want to know why the surgery may not have worked, why stimulation is better than burning the cells and how extensive damage can be to other parts of the brain. Get back to me when you can, thanks. Dear Alexa: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is used to treat tremors among otheer conditions. As with any treatment it may not always work. DBS involves the implantation a of an electricla device in the brain that sends out tiny electriccal impulses to alter the activities of the brain. If this procedure initially worked but his tremors have reoccured then perhaps the frequency of the electrical impulses from the device need to be adjusted to achieve the desired clinical benefit. You should as his neurosurgeon about this option. Burning cells is never a good option because of the risk of damage to the surrounding cells and the potential to cause the patient furhter harm. DBS is a safer option as it does not have that risk. |
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| Last Updated ( Tuesday, 01 June 2010 ) |
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