Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery in Ankara: Treatment Centers and Physicians

Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery in Ankara: Treatment Centers and Physicians

Deep brain stimulation surgery in Ankara stands out as an important treatment alternative, particularly for patients with Parkinson’s disease. The procedure, which can also be applied in cases of dystonia and tremor, is known as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). This operation involves the placement of electrodes into the basal ganglia region of the brain and stimulation via an implanted pulse generator, and it is highly effective in alleviating symptoms of certain neurological disorders.

Deep Brain Stimulation Treatment Centers in Ankara

There are many treatment centers in Ankara that perform deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. Hospitals offering safe and effective treatment options for patients with neurological movement disorders play a significant role in the management of conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor.

Success in deep brain stimulation surgery depends on selecting the right center and working with an experienced specialist team, and it is often associated with a marked improvement in patients’ quality of life. At DBS centers in Ankara, the entire process is planned according to the patient’s age, individual needs, and the severity of the disease.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Sorar, who is well known for his many years of experience and clinical research in the field of movement disorders surgery, is among the physicians in Ankara performing deep brain stimulation surgery. Effectively applying the DBS method in neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and tremor, he offers treatment approaches aimed at improving patients’ quality of life.

What Is Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery?

Deep brain stimulation surgery is a treatment method used in neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor that cause involuntary movement disturbances. More commonly referred to as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), this method aims to reduce symptoms such as muscle rigidity, bradykinesia, and tremor by electrically stimulating brain regions involved in motor control.

The DBS procedure performed at centers in Ankara is a surgical operation that involves placing thin wires into specific areas of the brain. Its mechanism of action is based on implanting small electrodes into the targeted brain region and placing a small pulse generator under the skin in the chest area to deliver electrical stimulation. The generator sends electrical impulses to the areas controlling motor function, helping regulate abnormal activity and significantly reducing disease-related symptoms.

How Is Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery Performed?

In deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, the procedure is based on carefully placing thin electrodes into the brain nuclei located in the central regions of the brain and continuously stimulating these areas electrically via a pulse generator implanted in the chest or abdominal region. This helps regulate neuronal communication disrupted by Parkinson’s disease or other neurological disorders, thereby reducing clinical symptoms.

When DBS is selected for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, the first step involves obtaining brain MRI imaging. The process carried out at DBS centers in Ankara then continues with a detailed neurological examination, neuropsychological testing, and assessment of the patient’s suitability for surgery.

Immediately before brain CT imaging, the scalp is anesthetized and stabilized using a stereotactic frame. MRI and CT images are evaluated together to achieve three-dimensional visualization of the target area.

At DBS centers in Ankara, the next stage involves reassessing patient suitability by recording electrophysiological signals from the target area using a system known as microelectrode recording. Once all procedures are completed, the electrodes are precisely fixed in the target region. The electrodes are then activated via a pulse generator placed just beneath the skin in the chest area.

Who Is Eligible for Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery?

DBS is not suitable for all patients and can only be applied to individuals who meet specific criteria. Primarily, patients with movement disorders who do not adequately respond to medical therapy are evaluated. During this process, the patient’s general health status, imaging findings, and clinical examination results are taken into consideration.

Who can undergo deep brain stimulation surgery?

• Cases of Parkinson’s disease where medication is insufficient
• Severe essential tremor significantly impairing quality of life
• Dystonia or conditions involving involuntary muscle contractions
• Epilepsy
• Huntington’s disease
• Situations where medication side effects negatively affect daily life
• Movement disorders that cannot be controlled with non-surgical treatments

At DBS centers in Ankara, the procedure is performed only after a definitive diagnosis is established. For example, in Parkinson’s disease, a minimum disease duration of three years is generally required before surgery is considered, and the diagnosis must be confirmed prior to making an operative decision.

Is Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery Risky?

Since deep brain stimulation surgery is a surgical intervention, it does carry certain risks. However, with appropriate patient selection, an experienced surgical team, and professional clinical practice, these risks can be significantly minimized. Possible risks include bleeding, infection, device displacement, or electrical malfunctions.

In some patients, temporary neurological side effects, headaches, or mild cognitive changes may be observed. Overall, with regular follow-up, monitoring, and device adjustments after DBS surgery, these risks can be effectively managed. At centers in Ankara, deep brain stimulation surgery is performed safely under the supervision of neurology specialists.

Risks and Side Effects of Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

Although deep brain stimulation surgery is highly effective in alleviating symptoms in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and tremor, it may also be associated with certain risks and side effects. These effects may occur during surgery, postoperatively, or in relation to the device’s position.
Possible risks and side effects include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Device displacement or malfunction
• Dizziness
• Balance disturbances
• Mild changes in memory, thinking, and concentration
• Head and neck pain
• Muscle contractions
• Depression, anxiety, or emotional changes
• In some patients, blurred vision, speech difficulties, or diplopia while the device is active

Cost of Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

The cost of deep brain stimulation surgery in Ankara varies depending on factors such as the type of device used, the clinic where the procedure is performed, the surgeon’s experience, and the type and severity of the disease. For this reason, it is not possible to provide a fixed price.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Sorar, who stands out for his extensive case experience, success, and long-standing work in movement disorders surgery, effectively manages the entire DBS process. For detailed information regarding the cost of deep brain stimulation surgery and the treatment process, you may contact us.

Legal Disclaimer

This content has been prepared solely for informational purposes in accordance with the Regulation on Promotional and Informational Activities in Health Services. The information provided does not constitute medical diagnosis or treatment advice. Since each individual’s health condition is unique, definitive and personalized information regarding treatment or other medical interventions can only be determined following a physician’s examination. For detailed information and individual evaluation, you may seek professional consultation from our specialist physician at our center.