Advanced Treatment Led by a Pioneer in Functional Neurosurgery
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is one of the most advanced and effective surgical treatments for patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, essential tremor, epilepsy, and other complex neurological disorders that are no longer adequately controlled with medication.
In India, DBS surgery has evolved significantly over the past two decades, with outcomes today matching the best international centers. A major reason for this progress is the work of Dr Paresh Doshi, a pioneer of functional and stereotactic neurosurgery, who has played a key role in establishing and advancing DBS surgery in the country.
This page provides a complete, transparent guide to DBS surgery — covering who it is for, how it works, benefits, risks, cost in India, recovery, and long-term outcomes — to help patients and families make informed decisions.
What Is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?
Deep Brain Stimulation is a reversible and adjustable neurosurgical procedure in which fine electrodes are implanted into specific, carefully selected areas of the brain that regulate abnormal electrical activity.
These electrodes are connected to a programmable device (neurostimulator) implanted under the skin of the chest. The device delivers controlled electrical impulses that help restore balance in brain circuits, leading to improvement in symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and involuntary movements.
Unlike lesioning procedures, DBS does not destroy brain tissue, making it a safer and more flexible long-term treatment option.
Conditions Treated With DBS Surgery
DBS surgery is most commonly recommended for the following conditions:
- Medication-resistant tremors
- Severe stiffness and slowness
- Motor fluctuations and dyskinesia
- Reduced quality of life despite optimal medical therapy
- Generalized dystonia
- Segmental or focal dystonia
- Childhood-onset and genetic dystonia
Essential Tremor
- Severe tremors affecting hands, head, or voice
- Poor response to medications
Epilepsy (Selected Cases)
- Drug-resistant epilepsy
- Patients unsuitable for resective surgery
Other Selected Conditions
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Tourette syndrome
- Chronic pain syndromes
Who Is the Right Candidate for DBS Surgery?
DBS is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Proper patient selection is the single most important factor determining long-term success.
You may be a good candidate if:
- Symptoms are no longer adequately controlled with medication
- Medications cause disabling side effects
- Daily activities and independence are significantly affected
- Neurological evaluation and imaging support the surgical benefit
DBS may not be suitable if:
- There is advanced dementia
- Severe uncontrolled psychiatric illness is present
- Medical conditions make surgery unsafe
A comprehensive evaluation by an experienced functional neurosurgery team is essential before proceeding.
DBS Surgery: Step-by-Step Overview
- Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Includes neurological examination, imaging (MRI/CT), medication assessment, and neuropsychological testing when required.
- Electrode Implantation
Using advanced stereotactic techniques, electrodes are placed with high precision into targeted brain regions responsible for symptom control.
- IPG Implantation
The pulse generator is implanted under the skin of the chest and connected to the brain electrodes.
- Post-Surgical Programming
DBS settings are gradually optimized over weeks to months to achieve maximum benefit with minimal side effects.
Benefits of DBS Surgery
Patients who are carefully selected may experience:
- Significant reduction in tremors
- Improved movement control and stability
- Reduced medication dosage
- Fewer medication-related side effects
- Improved independence and quality of life
DBS does not cure neurological diseases, but it can dramatically improve symptom control when medications are no longer sufficient.
DBS Surgery Cost in India
The cost of DBS surgery in India typically ranges between:
₹15–30 lakhs (USD 15,000–35,000)
The exact cost depends on:
- Type of DBS system used
- Hospital stay and investigations
- Complexity of the condition
Despite the lower cost compared to Western countries, India offers international-standard DBS systems, advanced surgical infrastructure, and highly experienced surgeons.
Life After DBS Surgery
Recovery
- Hospital stay: 10-12 days
- Return to routine activities: 2–4 weeks
Long-Term Management
- Regular DBS programming sessions
- Gradual medication adjustments
- Battery replacement or recharging as required
Most patients notice progressive improvement over time as stimulation settings are optimized.
DBS Surgery Outcomes and Success Rates
When patient selection and surgical precision are optimal:
- Parkinson’s disease: 60–80% improvement in motor symptoms
- Essential tremor: 70–90% tremor reduction
- Dystonia: Gradual but sustained improvement over months
Outcomes depend on disease type, duration, surgical accuracy, and long-term follow-up
Why Experience Matters in DBS Surgery
DBS is among the most technically demanding procedures in neurosurgery. Outcomes are strongly influenced by:
- Accurate target selection
- Surgical precision
- Expertise in long-term programming
Dr Paresh Doshi is internationally recognized for his contribution to functional and stereotactic neurosurgery, with decades of experience and one of the largest DBS case volumes in the region. He is frequently referred complex and revision cases from across India and abroad.
DBS Surgery for International Patients
India is a preferred destination for DBS surgery due to:
- High surgical expertise
- Short waiting times
- Comprehensive care coordination
- Significant cost advantage
Dedicated teams assist international patients with medical visas, travel, accommodation, and follow-up planning.
Book a DBS Consultation
If you or a loved one is considering DBS surgery, a personalized evaluation is the most important first step.
📍 Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, India
📞 9930990777 – Consultations available for Indian and international patients
📩 Book an appointment via WhatsApp