Deep brain stimulation implantation is a procedure to insert a device that will send an electrical current to an area of the brain that is causing problems. This may be done to treat various medical conditions, such as:
• Parkinson disease.
• Essential tremor.
• Epilepsy.
• Inherited disorders of muscle movement (dystonias).
• Cluster headaches.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• Depression.
The DBS device generates an electric current and sends it in pulses to a specific area deep inside the brain. Once implanted, the device can be used 24 hours per day. The electric pulses are automatic. The timing is set before the device is placed in the body. The intensity …show more content…
These medicines can thin your blood. Do not take these medicines before your procedure if your health care provider instructs you not to.
• Plan to have someone take you home after the procedure.
• Ask your health care provider how your surgical site will be marked or identified.
• You may be given antibiotic medicine to help prevent infection.
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PROCEDURE
• To reduce your risk of infection:
○ Your health care team will wash or sanitize their hands.
○ Your skin will be washed with soap.
• The surgery to insert a DBS device will be done in two parts:
Inserting the Lead
• You will be given a medicine to numb the area (local anesthetic). This will be injected into your scalp.
• A small hole will be made in your skull.
• A computer will be used to make a map of your brain. This will show the part of the brain that needs to be treated.
• The surgeon will ask you various questions. This will help the surgeon find the most appropriate part of the brain to place the lead.
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Inserting the Neurotransmitter and Extension Wire
• You will be given a medicine to make you fall asleep (general anesthetic).
• A small incision will be made in the skin behind your ear. The extension wire will be inserted through this