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Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

Your Partner in Neurological Treatments

Lee Health is here to provide support for you and your family with the latest advances in neurosurgery and medical treatments to ensure you receive the best and most caring healthcare possible. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment used for certain aspects of Parkinson's disease. It mainly helps with movement symptoms and side effects from common medications used by Parkinson's patients. DBS can also improve some non-motor symptoms like pain, sleep, and urinary urgency.

Neurosurgical Specialists Near You

Dr. Mandybur has over 25yrs of experience and has performed over 1000 cases of DBS, and has been involved in numerous studies on deep brain stimulation (DBS). Additionally Dr. Mandybur continues to be actively involved in national meetings and societies on the use of DBS.

What is deep brain stimulation (DBS) and how does it work?

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a procedure where electrodes are placed in specific parts of the brain. These electrodes send electrical signals to help control abnormal impulses or affect certain cells and chemicals in the brain. The level of stimulation is managed by a pacemaker-like device implanted in your upper chest. A wire connects this device to the electrodes in your brain, running under your skin.

Deep Brain Stilumation Diagram


Neurosurgery Treatment Centers Serving Southwest Florida

Why use deep brain stimulation?

Deep brain stimulation has been FDA approved for Essential Tremors since 1997 and parkinson’s disease in 2001. It has been proven to be an effective treatment for individuals dealing with movement disorders like essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, and dystonia. It may also be used to help reduce seizures in cases of difficult-to-treat epilepsy.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is commonly used to treat conditions such as:

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is being studied as a potential treatment for:

  • Tourette syndrome
  • Huntington's disease and chorea
  • Tardive dyskinesias
  • Dementia
  • Chronic pain
  • Cluster headache

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) & Parkinson’s

DBS is considered one of the most significant medical breakthroughs since the creation of levodopa. It works best for individuals who suffer from severe tremors, wearing-off spells, and dyskinesias caused by medications. Studies reveal that its benefits can last for many years. However, it may not be suitable for everyone with Parkinson's, as certain problems like cognitive disfunction, speech, swallow, may not consistently respond to DBS therapy.

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