Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is approved and funded in Australia for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor and dystonia. DBS can be applied to many different ‘targets’ in the brain – each yielding different effects. The choice of target depends on the condition being treated and the most prominent symptoms. DBS is not a cure for any condition. The aim is to improve function and quality of life.
DBS can directly improve movement including slowness, stiffness, tremor, walking difficulties and involuntary movement (dyskinesias). For most patients with Parkinson’s disease, tremor is not the major reason for having DBS. DBS can allow a substantial reduction of Parkinson’s medication.
DBS can substantially improve arm tremor (e.g. by over 80%) and, to a lesser extent, midline tremor such as voice and head tremor (e.g. by 50%). DBS can thereby improve function such as eating, drinking and writing. DBS can reduce or eliminate the need to take anti-tremor medication.
DBS can help generalised (whole body) or focal (e.g. torticollis) dystonia. Both abnormal movement and pain may improve. DBS can thereby improve function such as eating and driving and improve quality of life. DBS can reduce the need to take dystonia medication and botulinum toxin injections. The effect on dystonia is not immediate but accrues over months and years.
Surgical Consulting and Movement Precinct,
Level 1, Cabrini Medical Centre,
183 Wattletree Rd, Malvern 3144
E: [email protected]
P: 9079 1880