Deep Brain Stimulation, or DBS, is a minimally invasive neurosurgical procedure which involves implanting an electrode into precise regions of the brain in order to deliver a mild electrical current in order to help treat symptoms. The electrode in question is placed with millimeter accuracy, and is then connected to an energy source, or a pulse-generator, often placed under the collarbone, much like a pacemaker.
Over 200,000 DBS implantations have been performed world-wide, and in the United States, deep brain stimulation is currently approved for the treatment of five conditions: Essential Tremor, Parkinson’s Disease, Dystonia, Epilepsy, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. However, new indications are continually being investigated, and there are ongoing clinical trials for diseases such as opioid addiction, Alzheimer’s disease and Tourette syndrome.
For more information, please watch this video by our colleagues at the Stereotactic Academy, titled “What is DBS”
If you think you or a loved one may be a candidate for DBS, please talk to your doctor, or use our Specialist Finder to find an expert near you.