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Deep Brain Stimulation
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Posted On :
Jan-30-2012
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Article Word Count :
518
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Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure that includes implanting a battery operated medical device known as a neurostimulator into a specific part of the patient’s brain (usually the subthalamic nucleus).
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Considered to be one of the most promising methods of managing Parkinson’s Disease, Deep Brain Stimulation is gaining due popularity for the past decade or so. Delivering remarkable results for the patients suffering from advanced Parkinson’s disease and other neurological movement disorders, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure that includes implanting a battery operated medical device known as a neurostimulator into a specific part of the patient’s brain (usually the subthalamic nucleus). This device is somewhat like a heart pacemaker and basically sends out mild electrical stimulation to the targeted areas of the brain. These are primarily the areas that control movement of the body. The electronic stimulation blocks the nerve signals that are causing the tremors and involuntary movement for the patient.
Providing long-term benefits, the little device is not bigger than a stopwatch, in size. The device consists of three parts. They are the lead, the extension and the neurostimulator. The lead is the electrode that is positioned in such a way in the brain of the patient that the tip of the wire is proximal to the area of the brain that governs body movement. The extension is an insulated wire which is connected to the neurostimulator, as well as the patient’s head, shoulders and neck. This wire is passed under the skin to the neurostimulator. The neurostimulator is predominantly the battery of the device and usually implanted near the collarbone, abdomen or chest.
It is important to note that deep brain stimulation is not the cure for Parkinson’s disease and most patients still need to take medication after DBS surgery. This is merely a valuable tool for people extensively suffering from Parkinson’s. The DBS procedure is being well-received for a number of reasons. The procedure does not damage any part of the brain and can be reversed at any given time. After all, with the kind of development and research going on in the field of brain science throughout the world, there may soon be other surgeries to control indications of neurological diseases such as these.
This surgery is ideal for cases in which the patient’s symptoms are not adequately controlled by the medications and other forms of treatment. There are few specialists in India that hold expertise in Deep Brain Stimulation procedure and it may be advisable to seek out the best for the same. However, it is important to know that the surgery has a learning curve and the centres having an experience of more than 5-7 years of surgical treatment should be preferred to reduce the incidence of complications. All brain surgeries are dangerous and it is crucial to find the right surgeon to do the procedure. A good way to find one is through the Internet but be sure to go thoroughly through the doctor’s website. Another wise suggestion would be to take down the contact details from the website and book an appointment with the surgeon. A face to face meeting could give you a clearer picture of what the surgery involves and other aspects of the disease.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Deep Brain Stimulation_141046.aspx
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Author Resource :
Considered to be one of the most promising methods of managing Parkinson’s Disease, Deep Brain Stimulation is gaining due popularity for the past decade or so.
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Keywords :
Deep Brain Stimulation, Dbs Depression, Electric Brain Stimulation, Essential Tremor Treatment,
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Arts and Entertainment
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Arts and Entertainment
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