Deep Brain Stimulation Treatment for Parkinson’s disease in LA
Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS is an effective treatment for Parkinson’s disease symptoms including stiffness, movement problems, and tremors. It also treats medication side-effects. DBS shouldn’t be taken as a cure for Parkinson’s disease. It’s simply a way to find relief for patients who have had the disease for more than 5 years.
While it’s not entirely understood how DBS works, experts theorize that it regulates abnormal electrical signals in the brain. Brain cells communicate by sending electrical signals. Parkinson’s disease affects this process and causes the signals to become uncoordinated and irregular, leading to motor symptoms. DBS counters the irregular signaling patterns to restore normal communication between the cells.
Before the treatment takes place, a team of medical experts including movement disorder specialists and brain surgeons carries out an extensive assessment. This includes brain imaging scans, medication routine, and reviewing the symptoms. Once the medical team approves a patient, the DBS treatment can go ahead.
During the surgery, thin wires known as electrodes are placed inside the brain, in the region responsible for controlling movement. The wires are then connected to a battery-device known as a neurostimulator which pushes out continuous electrical pulses. The DBS experts then tweak the device according to how the patient reacts. In most cases, people can discontinue Parkinson’s drugs after they’ve had the treatment.
Dr. Farzin Pedouim is a board certified neurologist and Parkinson’s specialist based in Huntington Beach and Los Angeles. He helps patients with DBS treatments and provides expert advice that leads to positive outcomes.