Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological disorder that affects the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.

When these neurons die or become impaired, it can cause a variety of symptoms including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement and coordination. Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive condition, meaning that the symptoms usually worsen over time.

Treatment Options for Parkinson’s Disease

There are several different treatment options for Parkinson’s Disease, including medication, physical therapy, and surgery.

Medications such as Levodopa can help to control the symptoms of Parkinson’s by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Physical therapy can help to improve muscle strength and range of motion, which can make it easier for patients to move around and perform everyday tasks.

Surgery is an option for patients with severe symptoms that cannot be controlled with medication or physical therapy alone.

Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery for Parkinson’s Disease

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment option for patients with Parkinson’s Disease. During the procedure, a surgeon implants electrodes into specific areas of the brain that are responsible for movement control.

These electrodes are connected to a small device called a pulse generator, which is implanted under the skin of the chest. The pulse generator sends electrical signals to the electrodes, which can help to regulate abnormal brain activity and control the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.

When is Surgery an Option?

Surgery is usually only considered when medication and physical therapy have failed to adequately control the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. Patients who are considered for DBS surgery must meet specific criteria, including:.

Having a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease
Having symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life
Being responsive to Levodopa medication
Having no significant cognitive impairment
Being generally healthy and able to undergo anesthesia and surgery

Insurance Coverage for DBS Surgery

Insurance coverage for DBS surgery will depend on your specific health insurance plan. Some plans may cover the surgery in full, while others may require patients to pay a portion of the cost.

Before undergoing DBS surgery, it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine what your coverage will be and what out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.

Preparing for Surgery

If you are scheduled to undergo DBS surgery, your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare.

This may include stopping certain medications before the surgery, fasting for a specific amount of time before the surgery, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure. It is important to follow all of your doctor’s instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome.

Risks and Complications

DBS surgery is generally considered safe, but like all surgeries, it does come with some risks and possible complications. Some possible risks include infection, bleeding, and damage to the brain tissue.

Additionally, some patients may experience side effects from the surgery, such as speech difficulties or mood changes. Your doctor will discuss all of the potential risks and complications with you before the surgery, and will work with you to determine if the benefits of the procedure outweigh the risks.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After DBS surgery, patients will need to undergo a period of recovery and rehabilitation. This may include physical therapy to help improve movement and coordination, as well as time to adjust to the settings on the pulse generator.

Patients will need to attend follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the device.

Conclusion

DBS surgery is a treatment option for patients with Parkinson’s Disease who have not found relief from medication or physical therapy alone.

Insurance coverage for the surgery will depend on the patient’s specific health insurance plan, and patients will need to meet certain criteria to be considered for the procedure. While DBS surgery does come with some risks and complications, it can also provide significant relief from the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.