Advanced Therapies
Deep Brain Stimulation: Advanced Care for Movement Disorders
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a highly advanced, FDA-approved treatment option for patients with Movement Disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and even tic disorders. It offers renewed hope for individuals whose symptoms are no longer adequately controlled with medications alone or medications are causing side effects. DBS can help reduce tremors, stiffness, and involuntary movements, improving overall function and quality of life.
At our center, we combine expert clinical care, advanced imaging, and multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure that every DBS journey is safe, personalized, and effective.
Meet The Interventional Team Director
"Our central mission in our Movement Disorders program is to provide state-of-the-art medical and surgical therapy to patients who are eligible and would benefit. We are proud to extend interventional therapies to patients who may not have traditionally accessed these treatments." - Dr. Mitra Afshari
What is DBS?
Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS involves the surgical placement of thin, flexible electrodes into targeted regions in deep structures of the brain that are involved in movement. These electrodes are connected to a small, battery-powered device called a neurostimulator, which is implanted under the skin near the collarbone. These neurostimulators look a lot like cardiac pacemakers.
The system delivers carefully calibrated electrical stimulation that help restore more normal patterns of brain activity, reducing symptoms such as tremor, rigidity, stiffness, and involuntary movements like dystonia and chorea. It is important to note that DBS is reversible and adjustable. The stimulation settings can be fine-tuned over time to match your evolving needs, making it a flexible, long-term option for symptom control.
Who is a Candidate?
Deep Brain Stimulation is not for everyone, but it can be life-changing for carefully selected individuals. You may be a candidate if:
- You have a confirmed diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, essential tremor, or dystonia.
- Your symptoms are interfering with daily life despite an optimized medication regimen.
- Your symptoms have become resistant to currently available medications.
- You are experiencing significant side effects from medications, such as dyskinesias or fluctuations in symptom control in Parkinson’s Disease.
- You are in good general health and do not have severe cognitive or psychiatric problems.
Our team conducts a thorough evaluation often including neurological physical assessments, brain imaging, and intensive cognitive testing, to determine if DBS is right for you.
