Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Surgery in Delhi, India

Deep brain stimulation or DBS is a procedure where electrodes are implanted within specific human brain areas. The electrical impulses produced by the electrodes adjust abnormal impulses, and they have a significant impact on certain chemicals and cells within the brain.

Deep brain stimulation is useful for treating various medical conditions like

• Essential tremor
• Parkinson's disease
• Epilepsy
• Dystonia
• OCD or Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Deep brain stimulation can be a prospective treatment for

• Huntington's disease
• Cluster headache
• Chronic pain
• Tourette syndrome

Alternate Name of Deep Brain Stimulation

Neuralink Deep Brain Stimulation

Body Location

Brain

Deep Brain Stimulation Procedure Type

Deep brain stimulation is a surgical procedure.

Preparation for Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

Deep brain stimulation is a risky and serious procedure. It is important to weigh this process's potential benefits and risks even if you are eligible for this treatment. Preparing for the surgery involves:

• Doing several medical tests to ensure that the process is an appropriate and safe option.
• Before the implantation, brain imaging procedures like MRI. Such studies map those areas of the brain where the electrodes will be implanted.

How Performed is Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery?

Before starting with the actual process, an expert positions a stereotactic head frame on the head of the patient to keep the head at the proper place during the brain imaging stage. The frame is secured to the patient's head using screws or pins.

A neurosurgeon implants the deep brain stimulation system in two crucial stages. 

First, the neurosurgeon makes a small hole in the skull and leads with electrodes at the ends that are passed through the hole. They are implanted surgically in those areas of the brain that contribute to the symptoms of medical conditions.

They place a lead on just one side of the brain, but if symptoms occur on both sides, then they can place one lead on both sides of the brain.

One week later, they perform a separate surgery to implant one or two battery-enabled pulse generator tools under the skin in the upper chest below the collarbone. 

An extension wire is also attached to the lead that has already been placed in the brain. Then, the entire thing is tunneled under the skin behind the ear, down the neck to the pulse generator tool.

The patient needs to return to the neurosurgeon after two to four weeks so that they can turn on the implanted pulse generator using a hand-held tool. They also adjust the electrical pulses until there's an improvement in the symptoms.

Follow Up After Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

The doctor turns on the pulse generator in the patient's chest using a unique type of remote control after some weeks. This allows the doctor to program the pulse generator easily. They customize the stimulation of the brain according to the patient's condition. It might take 4 to 6 months to get the perfect setting for brain stimulation.

You can get the stimulation either all the time, or you can turn it off at night and on in the morning, as per the doctor’s advice. But this completely depends on your condition.

Take the particular remote control along with you to turn on the stimulation as and when required and turn it off accordingly. Sometimes, the neurosurgeons might fix the pulse generator in a way to adjust it a little at home.

The generator’s battery life can vary with settings and usage. The surgeon replaces the generator or its battery during outpatient procedures.

Risks Associated with Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

The risks of the surgery include:

• Stroke can be a possible risk of the surgery.
• The leads might get misplaced, resulting in infection.
• Bleeding in the brain can result in seizures and even breathing problems along with heart problems.
• Nausea is also a possible risk associated with the surgery.

Side Effects of the Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

• Temporary swelling and pain at the site of implantation.
• Hardware complications like eroded lead wire.
• Unwanted mood changes like depression and anger.
• Vision problems like double vision.

Recovery After Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

The recovery time is when the patients feel better than normal. Swelling of the brain around the tip of the electrode causes a lesion effect, which is a good indicator of your recovery once the stimulator is programmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Surgery Completely Cure Neurological Conditions?

Deep brain stimulation surgery does not offer a cure for neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or essential tremor and dystonia, it can significantly reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients.

2. What is The Success Rate of DBS Surgery in Delhi?

The success rate of DBS surgery in Delhi varies depending on the individual's condition and the specific neurosurgical center. However, DBS has shown promising results in improving motor symptoms and quality of life for many patients with Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia.

3. Is Deep Brain Stimulation Safe?

Deep brain stimulation is generally considered safe when performed by experienced neurosurgeons in well-equipped hospitals. However, like any surgery, it carries risks such as infection, bleeding, and potential side effects. The neurosurgical team will assess each patient's suitability for the procedure and discuss the associated risks and benefits.

4. What are The Benefits of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Surgery in Delhi?

Deep brain stimulation surgery can provide significant improvement in motor symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, and mobility issues. It can reduce medication requirements, enhance quality of life, and offer long-term symptom management for certain neurological conditions.

5. How Much Does DBS Cost in Delhi Ncr?

The cost of DBS surgery in Delhi NCR can vary depending on factors such as the hospital, surgeon's expertise, the specific condition being treated, and the overall treatment plan. It is advisable to consult with hospitals directly or speak to their financial departments to get accurate cost estimates and information about surgery cost.

6. Is deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery reversible?

Deep brain stimulation surgery is generally considered reversible. The electrodes can be adjusted, turned off, or removed if necessary. However, it is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a neurosurgeon before undergoing the procedure.