Deep Brain Stimulation Cost in India

How Deep Brain Stimulation Performed?

DBS surgery can be done while you are awake (with local anesthetic and minimal sedation) or while you are asleep (local anesthesia). Some patients may be awake for part of the procedure and asleep for the rest.

If the procedure is conducted while the patient is awake, local anesthesia is administered to numb the scalp, and the brain requires no anesthetic because it lacks pain receptors.

Doctors may advise the patient to discontinue taking Parkinson’s medications. During the surgery, the patient is requested to complete particular tasks in order to assist the surgeon in inserting electrodes in the correct portion of the brain.

However, some patients may find it uncomfortable to remain awake during brain surgery or to refuse medication. Because the patient would be unconscious during the surgery, general anesthesia is an alternative choice.

The following are the steps involved in Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery in India:

• Attaching the stereotactic frame
• Imaging scans – MRI or CT scan
• An incision on the skin and skull 
• Insertion of the electrode in the brain
• Stimulation of the brain cells
• Closure of the incision
• Implanting the stimulator
• Programming the stimulator

What are the Advantages and Risks Associated with Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery?

DBS has a number of advantages. These are some cases:

• When medications are inadequate, they may provide a treatment option
• It has the potential to be a life-changing (or perhaps life-saving) treatment
• It is movable
• It can be reversed

Among the possible complications of surgery are:

• Sepsis and infections
• Bleeding (internal or at the site of your incisions)
• Coma
• Stroke
• Swelling within and outside of your head

Some complications may arise as a result of the leads and pulse generator. These include:

• Lead shifting or improper placement
• Lead wires are separating from the pulse generator
• The leads or the pulse generator have failed
• Soreness or pain surrounding the pulse generator

Living with Stimulator:

After the DBS has been programmed, you will be sent home with instructions for regulating your own stimulation. The handheld controller allows you to turn the stimulator on and off, pick programs, and regulate the intensity of the stimulation. The majority of patients leave their DBS system 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Some individuals with essential tremors can use it during the day and then turn it off before going to bed. If required, your doctor may adjust the settings during follow-up appointments.

You will need to utilize a charging unit if your DBS has a rechargeable battery. The average charging time per week is 1 to 2 hours. You will have the option of using a primary cell battery or a rechargeable device, which you should discuss with your physician before surgery.

Cell phones, pagers, microwaves, security doors, and anti-theft sensors, like a cardiac pacemaker, will not interfere with your stimulator. When flying, keep your Implanted Device Identification card with you because the device is identified at airport security gates.

Suggestion

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a treatment option for a variety of disorders that impair brain function and mental health. It is nearly always a possibility when other treatments and approaches have failed. It is most commonly used to treat Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy, but researchers are also investigating the prospect of utilizing it to treat a variety of other disorders. While it does require two to three procedures, it is also quite effective in reducing symptoms and treating conditions that have a negative impact on your quality of life.

Q: What should I avoid after DBS surgery?

A: Heavy activity should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. This includes any physical activity such as jogging, swimming, or physical education programs. To allow your surgery wound to heal properly, avoid doing anything difficult. Before engaging in any activity, see your doctor if you have any concerns.

Q: How long does it take for deep brain stimulation to work?

A: The level of stimulation is customized, and it could take up to six months to establish the right balance. Depending on your condition, stimulation may be continuous 24 hours a day, or your doctor may urge you to switch your pulse generator off at night and on again in the morning.

Q: What can go wrong with DBS surgery?

A: Movement-related adverse events such as loss of balance, marginal paralysis, jolts and shocks, and impaired coordination may occur in people who have had DBS. Following DBS surgery, it is fairly uncommon for individuals to suffer increased tremors.

Q: Is DBS surgery painful?

A: Although there may be some adverse effects, the operation is not particularly uncomfortable. Patients may experience various side effects in the weeks and months following a DBS treatment, depending on their medications and the initial programming. Abnormal sensations, numbness, tingling, and involuntary muscle contractions are all possible side effects.

Q: Does DBS help with fatigue?

A: In Parkinson’s disease, fatigue is a prevalent and disabling non-motor symptom (PD). While deep brain stimulation surgery (DBS) has been linked to a reduction in motor complaints, it has also been linked to non-motor adverse effects. No study has used standardized tools to assess fatigue after DBS surgery to date.