Common questions about DBS.
These are the questions patients and families ask most often. Your surgeon and neurologist will answer questions specific to you.
What are the risks of the procedure?
1%: bleeding in the brain or stroke that causes a permanent loss of function.
1%: infection that requires removal of the DBS system.
3%: infection.
5%: change in cognition.
Are there any external components?
No.
What physical activities should I avoid after surgery? Are there restrictions because of the device?
You do not need to avoid any activities. The one exception is scuba diving: with a DBS system, you cannot descend below 10 meters.
When is it safe to fly, and what happens at airport security?
You can fly anytime.
The device will not set off a metal detector and is not affected by security machines.
You can go through airport security as usual.
Does DBS help the brain produce dopamine?
No. DBS quiets the abnormal brain activity that results from a loss of dopamine.
Will DBS improve my memory?
No.
Is DBS a "last-resort" therapy?
No. DBS is the gold standard treatment once motor fluctuations develop.
The earlier DBS is started, the more years of better quality of life a patient gains.
Can the DBS system be removed?
Yes.
Do you have to shave my whole head?
No. We shave only the amount of hair needed.
Can I have MRI scans with a DBS device?
Yes. The specifications vary by device.
Are DBS devices compatible with other medical imaging?
Yes. The only restrictions relate to MRI.
Can I drive after DBS surgery?
If you were driving before surgery, it is safe to return to driving after your first programming visit. In some cases, it will be safe to drive sooner.
If you were not driving before surgery, but you feel that DBS has improved your motor symptoms enough that you can drive again, we will advise a formal driving evaluation.
Will I still need medications after DBS?
Yes. DBS allows many patients to reduce their medications significantly, but the vast majority of DBS patients still need medications for optimal symptom control.
How quickly will I notice improvement after surgery?
Fine-tuning DBS takes a few visits over several months, but many patients experience a significant benefit after their first programming visit.
For patients with dystonia, we expect symptoms to take several months, and up to a year, to improve.
Are there any dietary restrictions after surgery?
No.
How do I take care of the surgical site?
No dressing or wound care is required.
You should shower daily after surgery.
The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures and skin glue, so you do not need to return to the neurosurgery clinic for a wound check.
Can I use electronic devices and appliances safely?
Yes. There are no restrictions.
How often will I need to replace the DBS device?
Non-rechargeable (primary cell) pulse generator: every 2 to 5 years, depending on settings.
Rechargeable pulse generator: at least 15 years.
How do I know when my battery needs to be replaced?
You will receive a patient programmer that reports battery life.
Remaining battery life is also checked at each programming visit.
You will have ample notice before the battery runs out.