New revolutionary treatment for patients suffering from movement disorders

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a new treatment being offered at Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWV), can dramatically reduce symptoms of movement disorders.

Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders can be incredibly difficult for patients to manage, and medical treatment options can be limited and/or ineffective.

"Deep Brain Stimulation is a neurosurgical procedure in which a thin wire electrode is inserted into the affected area of the brain," said Kelly A. Condefer, neurologist, GMC. "The wire is connected beneath the skin to a battery-operated pulse generator placed in the chest like a pacemaker, which sends mild electrical signals to the patient's brain that can reduce tremors and improve mobility in Parkinson's."

The pulse generator is placed near the patient's collarbone, and it can be turned on and off by the patient with a special controller.

Before the procedure, a patient undergoes a detailed clinical assessment to ascertain whether they could benefit from the surgery, Dr. Condefer said. The location of the implants in the brain depends upon the person's condition and particular symptoms.

"Patients are awake during the actual implantation of electrodes, so that we can evaluate their symptoms or side effects at particular locations. We use this and other tools during the surgery to pinpoint the best and most effective positioning of the electrodes within the brain," said Dr. Condefer. "About two weeks after the electrodes are placed, patients undergo a shorter surgery under anesthesia, as the wire and pulse generator are implanted."

The procedure can significantly reduce symptoms of a movement disorder and patients can often resume normal activities that had been challenging or impossible before DBS, including feeding or dressing. DBS is not appropriate or helpful for every person with Parkinson's however, and there are some symptoms that do not typically respond well to the surgery. Side effects - which can include temporary tingling in the limbs, slurring of speech, and vision changes - are usually treatable with adjustments to the settings of the pulse generator over time, Dr. Condefer said.

"This procedure can be revolutionary for a patient suffering from a movement disorder," said Dr. Condefer. "Without DBS, patients usually have to follow extensive medication regiments that can become expensive and ineffective in combating the symptoms of the disease. DBS can reduce the symptoms of movement disorders, reduce the need for medication, and truly improve a patient's quality of life."

"Movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease and dystonia can be debilitating and incredibly frustrating for patients," Dr. Condefer said. "But with DBS, patients can often enjoy more freedom and independence."