Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It affects the brain and reduces dopamine levels which leads to tremor, rigidity, and slowed movement.

While medication can help manage these symptoms, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to improve the quality of life of the patient.

There are several surgical procedures available for Parkinson’s disease patients that can improve symptoms and increase mobility.

These procedures are known to be effective, but they can be expensive, and insurance coverage for them can be a complicated process. In this article, we will discuss the surgical options for Parkinson’s disease and insurance coverage.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

Deep brain stimulation is a surgical procedure that involves implanting a small device – called a neurostimulator – under the skin of the chest.

The device sends electrical signals through the brain and helps to improve motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The procedure is done under anesthesia, and it takes about 3-4 hours.

Patients undergoing DBS are eligible if they have been diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease, have had the disease for at least five years, and are experiencing motor complications despite medication.

DBS surgery can cost upwards of $100,000, and insurance coverage varies depending on the provider, but most insurers cover this surgery with preauthorization.

Pallidotomy

Pallidotomy is a surgical procedure that involves destroying a small part of the brain that controls movement. The procedure helps to improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by reducing tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

The surgery is performed under anesthesia, and it takes about 2-3 hours.

Pallidotomy is reserved for people with advanced Parkinson’s disease who have severe tremors and are not responding to medication. The cost of this surgery varies depending on the location and the healthcare facility.

Most insurance may cover it if the patient is deemed eligible for the surgery.

Thalamotomy

Thalamotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the destruction of a tiny part of the thalamus in the brain that controls involuntary movements.

The surgery helps to improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by reducing tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. The procedure is done under anesthesia, and it takes about 2-3 hours.

Thalamotomy is an option for people with Parkinson’s disease who have been diagnosed with tremor-dominant Parkinson’s disease and are not responding to medication.

The cost of this surgery varies depending on the location and the healthcare facility. Most insurance may cover it if the patient is deemed eligible for the surgery.

Insurance Coverage for Parkinson’s Disease Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, the costs associated with Parkinson’s disease surgery can be considerable. The cost can vary from one healthcare facility to the other, and insurance coverage may be available.

Generally, insurance coverage for Parkinson’s disease surgery depends on the type of procedure and the specific health insurance plan. Most insurance companies do cover DBS surgery, but there may be certain restrictions, such as requiring prior authorization, and limits to the coverage.

When it comes to Pallidotomy and Thalamotomy, insurance coverage varies depending on the insurance provider and the specific healthcare facility.

Typically, these surgical procedures are not covered by insurance, but healthcare facilities may offer financial assistance programs and other payment plans to help cover the costs.

Conclusion

For people with Parkinson’s disease, surgical options may be considered when medications are no longer effective in treating symptoms. DBS, Pallidotomy, and Thalamotomy are the surgical options available for Parkinson’s disease patients.

These procedures can help improve symptoms and increase mobility, but their cost can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies depending on the procedure, the healthcare facility, and the insurance provider.

It is crucial to check with the insurance provider or healthcare facility on the available coverage options and financial assistance programs to help cover the costs of the surgery.

With proper research and communication, surgery can be an option to improve the quality of life of Parkinson’s disease patients.