Questions and Answers – Getting DBS Therapy
Am I a candidate for Medtronic Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Therapy for Parkinson's disease?
Medtronic DBS Therapy may be an option for you if:
- You have responded well to the medication levodopa
- You still receive benefit from medication, but it’s becoming less effective or causing intolerable side effects
- You are requiring multiple medications, higher dosages, or more frequent doses to manage your symptoms
DBS Therapy is no longer an option when:
- Your Parkinson’s disease symptoms no longer respond to medication
- You are severely disabled even in the best “on” state
- Medical conditions prevent you from having surgery
Is the operation painful?
There may be some discomfort during the initial stages of the surgery. However, your brain is not sensitive to pain. Your doctor may numb your scalp to minimize discomfort during the first stage of the procedure.
You will be under general anesthesia during the placement of the extensions and neurostimulator.
What is the typical length of hospitalization for tests, procedure, and recovery?
The length of hospitalization varies, but is often just a few days.
What does the stimulation feel like?
Most people don't feel the stimulation at all, but may benefit from the stimulation as it reduces some of their symptoms. However, some people may feel a brief tingling sensation when the stimulation is first turned on.
Higher levels of stimulation have been described as uncomfortable, jolting, or shocking. If these sensations occur, you should ask your clinician to adjust your stimulation to an appropriate level.
How is the stimulation adjusted?
Your clinician programs your stimulation levels wirelessly. The process is a noninvasive way of adjusting stimulation to meet your symptom control needs.
Does the Medtronic DBS System make any noise?
No.
Is it safe to have medical tests with the system implanted?
Consult your doctor before engaging in any medical treatment or diagnostic test (for example, MRI, mammograms, electrocautery, or heart defibrillation). Diathermy (deep heat treatment) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) should not be permitted under any circumstances. Refer to Important Safety Information for more information.
What is the cost of Medtronic DBS Therapy for Parkinson's disease?
The total cost varies significantly. Please contact your healthcare provider for an estimate of the costs associated with DBS Therapy.
Will my insurance cover DBS Therapy?
Medicare Coverage
The current national policy provides coverage for Medicare beneficiaries who qualify as candidates for DBS. (Medicare does not require prior approval before an implant, although you must meet Medicare's criteria in order for the procedure to be covered.) You will still pay deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
Insurance Coverage
Typically, your doctor will work with private insurance companies to obtain prior approval. This process normally requires that your doctor send a letter of medical necessity to the insurance company. This letter explains why DBS is appropriate for you. It also describes the other treatments that have been attempted and failed.
It is not uncommon for an insurance company to deny a request for prior approval if they are unfamiliar with the treatment. If you receive a denial and wish to appeal, we're here to guide you and your doctor through this process.
Can other people see the components of the DBS System?
Depending on your body build, the neurostimulator may be noticeable as a small bulge under the skin. It typically isn't noticeable under clothes. There also may be a slight bump on the top of your head, but it usually isn't visible under hair.
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.
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