Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A Modern Surgical Treatment Method for Movement Disorders

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A Modern Surgical Treatment Method for Movement Disorders

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is an advanced neurosurgical method used in the treatment of movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. This treatment aims to regulate abnormal neural signals in specific regions of the brain by delivering electrical stimulation through electrodes implanted inside the brain. DBS is an effective alternative for patients who do not respond adequately to medication treatment or for reducing side effects associated with long-term medication use.

In this article, we will provide comprehensive answers to questions such as what Deep Brain Stimulation is, how it works, who it can be applied to, which conditions it is preferred for, and what its advantages and risks are. We will also include the clinical approach of one of the specialists who successfully performs this treatment in Ankara, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Sorar.

What Is Deep Brain Stimulation?

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment method that regulates neural activity by delivering electrical stimulation to specific target areas within the brain through implanted electrodes. These electrodes are connected to a “neurostimulator” device similar to a cardiac pacemaker, which is placed under the skin, usually in the upper chest area.

The main objectives of this system are:

• Suppressing abnormal electrical activity in the brain
• Reducing symptoms such as muscle contractions, tremor, and slowness of movement
• Decreasing side effects caused by long-term medication treatment

DBS is a reversible and adjustable system. Thanks to this feature, optimization can be performed according to the patient’s needs throughout the treatment process.

Which Conditions Is It Used For?

Deep Brain Stimulation is commonly applied in the following conditions:

• Parkinson’s disease: Used to control symptoms such as tremor, muscle rigidity, and slowness of movement
• Essential tremor: Effective in reducing involuntary tremors in the hands and head
• Dystonia: Used to suppress involuntary muscle contractions
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): May be applied in selected patients who do not respond to medication treatment
• Epilepsy: Sometimes considered as an adjunctive treatment in drug-resistant epilepsy cases

How Is the Procedure Performed?

• Planning and Imaging: Target brain regions are determined using imaging techniques such as MRI and CT.
• Surgical Procedure: The patient is usually under local anesthesia. Electrodes are placed into target areas through small openings made in the skull.
• Stimulator Placement: The electrode cables are connected under the skin to a battery placed in the chest area.
• Programming: After surgery, device settings are adjusted. Stimulation parameters are customized for the individual patient.

This procedure usually takes 2–4 hours, and patients may be discharged on the same day or the following day.

What Are the Advantages?

• Provides long-term symptom control
• May reduce dependence on medications
• It is a reversible procedure; the system can be removed with low risk if necessary
• Being adjustable allows for an individualized treatment plan
• Significantly improves quality of life

Risks and Possible Complications

Like any surgical intervention, DBS also carries certain risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Device malfunctions
• Temporary or rarely permanent neurological side effects
• Temporary symptoms related to stimulator settings (such as drowsiness, double vision, etc.)

These risks are very low in experienced centers and can be minimized with appropriate patient selection.

Clinical Approach of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Sorar

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Sorar, one of the few physicians in Ankara specialized in DBS, stands out in the treatment of movement disorders with both a scientific and ethical approach. In his clinical practice:

• Patient selection is carried out through detailed analyses,
• Preoperative imaging is evaluated from multiple perspectives,
• Multidisciplinary teamwork is emphasized,
• Device settings are optimized according to the individual patient.

Following the surgical process, Dr. Sorar continues to closely monitor patients, aiming to achieve the best long-term outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is DBS a permanent treatment?
DBS controls symptoms but does not completely eliminate the disease. It is an alternative or complementary method to medication.

Which patients are suitable?
Patients who do not respond to medication but whose general health condition is suitable for surgery may be candidates for DBS.

Can the device be used for life?
Yes, but the battery may deplete. On average, it needs to be replaced every 3–5 years.

Is it a painful procedure?
Since it is performed under local anesthesia, pain is usually minimal. The procedure itself is generally not considered uncomfortable by most patients.

Conclusion

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is one of the most striking success examples of modern neurosurgery. In conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia that significantly reduce quality of life, it is a promising alternative for cases unresponsive to medication. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Sorar, who successfully performs this procedure in Ankara, is one of the leading names in DBS treatment with his patient-centered and scientifically grounded approach. For more information and appointments, you may contact him directly.