Deep Brain Stimulation

If you may need a deep brain stimulation, please Schedule an appointment with one of our Neurosurgeons as soon as possible.

What is Deep Brain Stimulation?3D model of a person's brain being attached to a device that emits electrodes to part of the brain.

Deep brain stimulation uses a small, implanted device that sends electrical signals to specific areas of the brain. Surgeons place thin electrodes into targeted brain regions and connect them to a pulse generator placed under the skin in the chest. The device delivers controlled stimulation that regulates abnormal brain activity linked to movement and neurological disorders and helps the brain circuits function better.

Deep brain stimulation helps manage symptoms of conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia when medications no longer provide enough relief. The therapy does not cure these conditions but reduces tremors, improves movement control, and enhances quality of life for many patients. Specialists adjust stimulation settings over time to optimize symptom control and support daily functioning.

How Does a Deep Brain Stimulation Work?

Surgeons begin by mapping the brain to locate the exact regions that control movement symptoms. A surgical team places thin electrodes into those targeted areas and verifies placement using imaging and real-time feedback. Then, the team connects the electrodes to a small pulse generator implanted under the skin in the chest or upper body. The pulse generator sends continuous, controlled electrical signals through the electrodes into the brain. These signals adjust abnormal activity in neural circuits that cause tremors, stiffness, or slowed movement. Surgeons fine-tune the device settings over time, increasing or decreasing stimulation strength and frequency to match symptom changes and improve daily function.

Benefits of Deep Brain Stimulation

Deep brain stimulation reduces movement symptoms and improves daily function for people with neurological disorders. The therapy targets abnormal brain activity and delivers electrical signals that restore smoother, more controlled movement and improve overall quality of life.

Benefits may include:

  • Reduces tremors and involuntary movements
  • Improves control of stiffness and rigidity
  • Enhances walking and balance
  • Lowers reliance on certain medications
  • Extends periods of symptom relief during the day
  • Improves ability to perform daily activities
  • Provides adjustable, long-term symptom control

Recovery from a Deep Brain Stimulation

After surgery, specialists monitor brain function and incision sites closely. Patients rest while the body heals around the implanted electrodes and pulse generator. Doctors manage pain, reduce swelling, and check for early signs of complications while patients gradually return to light activity. Over the following weeks, patients attend follow-up visits so specialists can activate and adjust the device settings. The brain gradually adapts to the stimulation as symptoms improve and fluctuate during the tuning process. Patients slowly increase daily activity, avoid heavy lifting during early healing, and work with care teams to fine-tune stimulation levels for the best symptom control.

 

 

If you would like to speak to a Neurosurgeon, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.