SCRIPPS NEWSPAPERS

Deep brain stimulation can be used to treat patients with a variety

of neurological symptoms. In Parkinsons disease these include tremors,
rigidity, stiffness, slowed movement and problems walking. Currently,
the procedure is used when medications cannot adequately control a
patients symptoms.
In surgery, a wire is inserted through a small hole in the skull, with
its tip placed in a target location. This electrode connects to an exten-
sion wire that then connects to a battery pack neurostimulator. An
electrical signal is delivered to brain areas known to control movement.
The electrical stimulation blocks abnormal nerve signals. Before
surgery, a neurosurgeon will locate an exact target where nerve signals
generate the Parkinsons symptoms.
Three brain targets have been FDA approved for use in Parkinsons
disease; most common are the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and the
globus pallidus (GPi). STN seems to provide more medication reduction
while GPi seems slightly safer for language and cognition.
Though medication will most likely be required after surgery, it is apt
to be less than before surgery.
Source: National Parkinson Foundation
Nucleus Ventral
Intermedius Thalamus
Deep Brain Stimulus
FDA-APPROVED BRAIN TARGETS
Subthalamic Nucleus
Deep Brain Stimulus
Globus Pallidus Interna
Deep Brain Stimulus
EXTENSION
Another insulated wire
the extension is passed
under the skin of the
head, neck and shoulder
to the neurostimulator.
NEUROSTIMULATOR
The battery-powered
neurostimulator is
usually implanted under
the skin near the
collarbone; in some cases
it is placed elsewhere.
ELECTRODE
A thin, insulated wire
the lead or electrode
is implanted in the brain.
Its tip is positioned in the
target brain area.
Midbrain
cross-section
Midbrain
cross-section
Midbrain
cross-section
(STN-DBS)
(GPi-DBS)
(Vim-DBS)