Deep brain stimulation

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

More than 150,000 patients have undergone DBS. The present day techniques make it a very safe procedure.

Best Deep Brain Stimulation Hospital in Mumbai

Welcome to Jaslok Hospital, a place where compassionate care meets cutting-edge technology. If you or your loved ones are struggling with neurological disorders like movement disorders, e.g. Parkinson’s disease, tremors, etc or psychiatric disorders like severe depression or obsessive compulsive disorders, that have not responded well to conventional treatments, then deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be the ray of hope you’ve been searching for. Our team of expert doctors and state-of-the-art facilities have earned us a stellar reputation as the best deep brain stimulation center in Mumbai/ India.

Jaslok Hospital has been a leader in the field of tertiary care, and multi-specialty healthcare for over the decades. With an eye toward excellence and innovation, we provide world-class medical services that prioritize the patient. At Jaslok Hospital we have a dedicated Department of Neurological Surgery with the team of doctors who provide the best deep brain stimulation in India and specialize in other neurosurgery treatments. Our deep brain stimulation doctor have performed many DBS procedures for a variety of diseases, with excellent outcomes and high levels of satisfaction.

Overview of DBS

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves the implantation of a neurostimulator device that sends electrical impulses to definite targets inside the brain, i.e. the different brain nuclei & stimulates neurons located in it through implanted electrodes.

 

 

The DBS system consists of DBS leads containing four to eight electrodes or contact points that are implanted into the precise targets deep inside the brain. The lead emerges through a burr hole on the skull, connecting to an extension wire that eventually links to an electrical pulse generator (also called a pacemaker), preferably implanted under the skin over the left side chest wall.

DBS works by delivering the electrical impulses to the target areas & thus exerts its therapeutic effect.

Deep Brain Stimulation is much superior to the ablative surgeries for Parkinson’s disease and various other movement disorders. Subthalamic nucleus (STN), Globus pallidus internus (GPI) & Ventro-intermedius(VIM) nucleus of thalamus are structures within the brain that are targeted for Parkinson’s disease, dystonia & tremor respectively, although each of these target sites can be used interchangeably for different movement disorders.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has become a lifeline in the treatment of advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD) in the last decade. It’s associated with minimal morbidity & there are noticeable improvements in motor functions and quality of life in PD patients.

Around the world, DBS surgery has been performed on more than 2,50,000 patients of PD with remarkable improvements.

Deep Brain Stimulation procedures are more complex than conventional stereotactic techniques & require additional expertise that is required for routine functional neurosurgical procedures for different movement disorders.

A thorough understanding of the principles of DBS, knowledge regarding the disease being treated, and merging the medical therapy with stimulation is required to achieve smooth control of the disease.

Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre has been highly successful in developing a multi-disciplinary team approach for the smooth conductance of this surgery.

 

The multi-disciplinary team comprises of a skilled leading neurosurgeon, neurologist, clinical research fellow, Parkinson’s disease nurse, neuro-psychiatrist, and physiotherapist.

Expertise of speech therapists, occupational therapists and other specialists is also obtained whenever required.

The success of DBS largely dependent upon the selection of the appropriate patients as well as the accurate implantation of the stimulation electrodes, that necessitates careful imaging-based pre-targeting, extensive electro-physiological exploration of the targets during surgery & carefully executed individualised post-operative programming.

 

What is Deep Brain Stimulation?

Deep Brain Stimulation is a revolutionary medical procedure that has transformed the lives of countless individuals battling neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. The DBS can also help in treateing the symptoms of psychiatric disorders like OCD and depression. It involves the use of a neurostimulator, commonly referred to as a brain pacemaker, which delivers electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain, modulating abnormal neuronal activity and alleviating symptoms.

 

Deep Brain Stimulation Treatment in Mumbai

When it comes to deep brain stimulation treatment in Mumbai, Jaslok Hospital excels in providing state-of-the-art facilities and unmatched expertise. Our team of top deep brain stimulation doctors in Mumbai and renowned neurologists, neurosurgeons, other healthcare professionals work collaboratively to ensure each patient receives personalized care and tailored treatment plans.

The deep brain stimulation clinic at our hospital has been treating various conditions, including:

  • Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson’s
  • Deep Brain Stimulation for Dystonia
  • Deep Brain Stimulation for Tremors
  • Deep Brain Stimulation for OCD
  • Deep Brain Stimulation for Depression
  • Peripheral nerve Stimulation for Migraine 
  • Peripheral nerve Stimulation for Trigeminal Neuralgia

 

Who is a Good Candidate for Deep Brain Stimulator?

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a treatment option for people who have neurological problems that interfere with their movement, emotions, or other activities. However, DBS is not appropriate for everyone with these diseases. There are certain parameters for determining who might benefit from this surgery.

Here are some general DBS criteria that our deep brain stimulation doctors in Mumbai check to determine whether the person is a good candidate for a deep brain stimulator or not.

  • The patient has tried other treatments like medication, therapy, or surgery, but they haven’t provided sufficient relief or have caused intolerable side effects.
  • The patient’s symptoms have a substantial effect on their quality of life, making daily activities, social interactions, work, or hobbies challenging.
  • The patient understands what DBS can realistically achieve for them and is aware of the risks and benefits associated with the procedure.
  • The patient has realistic expectations about what DBS can do for them and understands the risks and benefits of the procedure.
  • The patient is willing and able to follow the instructions and recommendations from their doctor before, during, and after the procedure.
  • The patient does not have any medical conditions or factors that would make DBS unsafe or ineffective for them, such as dementia, psychosis, infection, bleeding disorder, pacemaker, metal implant, or pregnancy.

Some of the specific criteria for DBS vary depending on the condition being treated. For example:

  • Individuals with Parkinson’s disease who experience motor fluctuations, dyskinesias, tremor, or rigidity that significantly interfere with their daily activities and are not adequately relieved by medications are recommended to undergo Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS).
  • For individuals with dystonia, healthcare providers consider DBS if they experience involuntary muscle contractions causing pain, abnormal postures, or movements that adversely affect their quality of life.
  • In the case of epilepsy, DBS is an option for individuals with frequent or severe seizures that medications or other treatments do not control.
  • For essential tremor, DBS is suitable for individuals experiencing tremor in their hands, head, or voice that hampers their ability to perform tasks such as writing, eating, or speaking.
  • For individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder, DBS may be recommended when persistent and intrusive thoughts or compulsions cause significant distress and impairment in their functioning despite conventional treatments.

Our experienced medical team thoroughly evaluates each patient’s medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors to decide if he or she  is a good candidate for deep brain stimulator or not.

 

Life After Deep Brain Stimulator Surgery

One of the aspects that set Jaslok Hospital apart is our unwavering commitment to our patients’ well-being. We not only ensure a seamless surgical experience but also provide comprehensive post-operative care and rehabilitation programs. Our experts guide patients through the recovery process, making sure they adapt smoothly to life after Deep Brain Stimulation surgery.

Some of the aspects of life after deep brain stimulation surgery are:

  • Recovery

After undergoing DBS surgery, patients typically spend a few days in the hospital for observation and recovery. They may experience some discomforts like pain, swelling, bruising, or incision site infection. Medication and proper wound care can effectively manage these. Patients may also experience temporary side effects such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, tingling, speech difficulties, or mood changes due to stimulation. Adjusting the settings of the neurostimulator device can often address these issues.

 

  • Programming

Fine-tuning the settings of the neurostimulator is a critical aspect of DBS treatment. A neurologist or a trained nurse typically carries out this optimization process using a handheld device that communicates with the neurostimulator. It might take multiple sessions to achieve the best results. Furthermore, patients or their caregivers can perform basic programming at home using a remote control device. Our deep brain stimulation DBS doctors in Mumbai can also make adjustments remotely through a wireless system connected to the internet.

 

  • Medication

While DBS can significantly reduce the need for medication in some cases, it doesn’t entirely replace it. Especially in the early stages after surgery, patients may still require medication to manage their condition. The dosage and frequency of medication may be adjusted by the deep brain stimulation DBS doctors based on the response to stimulation. It’s crucial for patients not to alter or discontinue their medication without consulting their doctor.

 

  • Lifestyle

DBS can notably enhance a patient’s quality of life by reducing symptoms and improving day-to-day functioning. This includes positive effects on mood, cognition, sleep, and social interactions. However, it’s important to remember that DBS isn’t a cure, and patients may still face certain challenges. They might need to make lifestyle adjustments like maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and considering psychological counseling if necessary.

 

  • Monitoring

Regular follow-ups and monitoring by the medical team at our deep brain stimulation center in Mumbaiare essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the stimulation. Patients will require periodic check-ups, tests, and programming adjustments. Any alterations in symptoms, side effects, or device function should be promptly reported to the deep brain stimulation DBS doctors in Mumbai. Additionally, depending on usage and model, the battery of the neurostimulator device may need replacement every few years, which may necessitate another minor procedure or surgery.

 

 

Deep Brain Stimulation Success Rate

The success of Deep Brain Stimulation largely depends on the proficiency of the medical team and the patient’s suitability for the procedure. The deep brain stimulation clinic in Mumbai at Jaslok Hospital boasts an impressive success rate in DBS surgeries, which has garnered us a reputation for being a center of excellence in neurological care.

The deep brain stimulation success rate depends on several factors, such as:

  • The condition being treated

Different conditions have different responses to DBS. For example, DBS can reduce tremor by 80% to 90% in patients with essential tremor, improve motor function by 50% to 60% in patients with Parkinson’s disease, decrease seizure frequency by 50% to 70% in patients with epilepsy, reduce compulsions by 40% to 60% in patients with OCD, and improve dystonia symptoms by 50% to 70% in patients with dystonia.

 

  • The target area for stimulation

DBS helps different parts of the brain in different ways. For example, it can ease problems with movement by gently nudging spots like the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or the globus pallidus internus (GPi). When we stimulate the anterior thalamic nucleus (ATN) or the hippocampus, it can reduce seizures. To lift up mood disorders, we focus on the ventral capsule/ventral striatum (VC/VS) or the subgenual cingulate gyrus (SCG). And to ease OCD symptoms, we target the internal capsule (IC) or the ventral globus pallidus (VGP).

 

  • The stimulation settings

The deep brain stimulation success rate also depends on a few settings. Think of it like adjusting a radio. We set how often it sends signals (frequency), how strong those signals are (intensity), how long each signal lasts (pulse width), and how often it happens (duration). Getting these just right in the neurostimulator device is really important. It’s like tuning an instrument to make beautiful music.

 

  • The patient’s characteristics

Each person is like a puzzle, with different pieces that matter. Things like how old they are, if they’re a man or a woman, their medical history, the medicines they take, how they live, and what they hope for, all have a say. They can change how a person feels about the treatment, how comfortable they are with the procedure, and how well they stick to the follow-up care. Also, these factors can influence how happy a person feels and how good their life is after DBS.

 

Explore the pros and cons of deep brain stimulation in our insightful blog post: Deep Brain Stimulation: Pros and Cons

 

Long-Term Side Effects of Deep Brain Stimulation

Although Deep Brain Stimulation is considered a safe procedure, it is essential to understand potential long-term side effects.

  • Temporary pain and swelling at the implantation site
  • Headache
  • Infection
  • Confusion
  • Stroke
  • Seizure
  • Difficulty concentrating

It takes a few weeks to activate the device and determine the best settings for each person. Changing the device’s settings accordingly can fix adverse effects that may occasionally occur in certain settings.

The team our deep brain stimulation clinic in Mumbai educates patients about the risks involved and implements stringent safety measures throughout the treatment journey to minimize any adverse outcomes.

 

Deep Brain Stimulation Cost in Mumbai

Understanding the financial elements of DBS treatment is critical for anyone thinking about undergoing this life-changing technique. The costs are influenced by the specific condition being treated, the complexity of the procedure, and post-operative care requirements. During the initial consultation, our deep brain stimulation clinic team at Jaslok Hospital is committed to giving honest, tailored cost estimates, ensuring that individuals have a clear idea of the financial commitment needed.

 

Why Jaslok Hospital for Deep Brain Stimulation in Mumbai?

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a sophisticated procedure that demands a high level of expertise and experience from the surgeons, neurologists, and other medical professionals involved. It also necessitates advanced technology and equipment to ensure both safety and precision. This emphasizes the significance of selecting the appropriate hospital for deep brain stimulation in Mumbai.

Choosing the right hospital for deep brain stimulation in Mumbai is a decision that can significantly impact a patient’s life. At Jaslok Hospital, we stand out for several reasons:

  •  Top Deep Brain Stimulation DBS Doctors in Mumbai

Our hospital boasts a team of top deep brain stimulation DBS doctors in Mumbai who have garnered national and international recognition for their contributions to the field of neurology and neurosurgery. The team includes neurosurgeons, neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, technicians, and various other medical experts. Together, they collaborate to offer thorough care and support to every patient. With extensive experience, they have conducted numerous successful deep brain stimulation treatment for a range of conditions like Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, dystonia, epilepsy, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Their expertise is well-recognized, reflected in their contributions of research papers and articles on deep brain stimulation treatment in both national and international journals.

 

  •  Cutting-Edge Technology

We invest in the latest medical advancements and technologies to ensure our patients receive world-class treatment and exceptional healthcare services.

 

  •  Patient-Centric Approach

Every patient’s journey is unique, and we recognize the importance of personalized care. Our patient-centric approach involves actively listening to our patients’ concerns, understanding their needs, and tailoring treatment plans accordingly. Our deep brain stimulation center in Mumbai also involves the patient’s family and caregivers in the decision-making process and provides them with information, education, support, and counseling.

 

  •  Comprehensive Care

Beyond medical treatment, we offer holistic care that encompasses emotional support, rehabilitation, and follow-up care to ensure a wholesome recovery.

 

  •  Best Deep Brain Stimulation Clinic in Mumbai

Jaslok Hospital’s reputation as the best deep brain stimulation clinic in Mumbai is well-deserved. The hospital’s commitment to patient-centric care, state-of-the-art facilities, and a team of dedicated specialists sets it apart from others in the field. The warm and compassionate environment at Jaslok Hospital ensures that patients receive the best possible care throughout their treatment journey.