Neurosurgery with Deep Brain Stimulation

In many patients reduction in medication parallels the increase in the therapeutic electric current

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) and Occipital Nerve Stimulation (ONS) are all forms of Neuromodulation. They can be highly effective forms of treatment for a range of conditions from Parkinson's Disease and tremor to chronic neuropathic pain and cluster headache.Neuromodulation

As King's Consultant Neurosurgeon, Mr Keyoumars Ashkan explains in his article, 'What is Neuromodulation', "Neuromodulation is one of the most exciting emerging techniques in neurosurgery and is a powerful technique to treat patients with neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, tremor, dystonia, intractable pain and headaches."

Mr Ashkan describes how the new neurosurgical technique involves the use of electricity, delivered into specific areas including:

  • parts of the brain,
  • spine or the
  • nerves

The objective is to change the electrical activity and therefore the function of tissues in these targets. 

Neuromodulation is now being used to treat a whole spectrum of medical conditions. The methodology is modified for each patient so that the therapeutic effect is tailored for each individual patient.

Following the insertion of the device, for DBS the system is swtitched on using external programming a few days after surgery. Initially set to deliver only a low current which is then gradually increased in the out-patient clinic over the subsequent weeks until the optimal current is reached. In many patients reduction in medication parallels the increase in the therapeutic electric current.

A disease of long duration generally involving slow changes. Full medical glossary
A type of frequent headache that recurs regularly in clusters, with pain-free intervals in between, and is associated with a runny nose (rhinitis) and increased tear production Full medical glossary
Pain that is not relieved by ordinary treatment. Full medical glossary
A large abdominal organ that has many important roles including the production of bile and clotting factors, detoxification, and the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Full medical glossary
Bundle of fibres that carries information in the form of electrical impulses. Full medical glossary
Bundles of fibres that carry information in the form of electrical impulses. Full medical glossary

Associated with the nervous system and the brain.

Full medical glossary
A group of cells with a similar structure and a specialised function. Full medical glossary
Shaking or trembling due to involuntary muscle movements. Full medical glossary
Relating to the urinary tract. Full medical glossary