Your browser is out of date
With an updated browser, you will have a better Medtronic website experience. Update my browser now.
Explore important reasons to choose Medtronic deep brain stimulation therapy. We provide you with unparalleled resources and one-on-one support while you are deciding whether DBS is right for you. Our technology is designed to meet your needs now and into the future.
Medtronic is a global leader in medical technology, services, and solutions — serving millions of people around the world every day.
DBS development started in 1987, and Medtronic has been leading the way ever since. So far, more than 175,000 Medtronic DBS devices have been implanted for Parkinson's symptoms and other conditions. We are committed to making sure you have the information and support you need to decide whether Medtronic DBS Therapy is right for you.
The Medtronic DBS system is designed to optimize your treatment now without limiting treatment options down the road. Take a closer look at the advantages of treating your Parkinson's symptoms with deep brain stimulation.
Your doctor programs your DBS system to provide the best symptom control for you. As your symptoms change over time, the programming can be changed.
Unlike some surgeries for Parkinson's, deep brain stimulation is reversible. The system can be turned off or removed, and won't limit your future treatment options. Parkinson's research moves forward all the time. With DBS, you can take advantage of new Parkinson's medications and treatments — hopefully, a cure.
DBS may cause some of your symptoms to get worse or may affect your speech. Your doctor can adjust the settings to minimize side effects while providing the best possible symptom control.
Approximately seven out of 10 DBS-eligible patients with movement disorders may need an MRI within 10 years of receiving their device.1 Only Medtronic provides safe* access to MRI anywhere on the body with some systems under certain conditions — giving your doctor an important tool for diagnosis. We know it's important that you have safe access to MRI. That's why we performed rigorous testing of Medtronic DBS systems.
Some Medtronic DBS devices may remain on while you have an MRI. You may take comfort in knowing that the device can remain on (if programmed to the right settings) to control your symptoms. Talk with your doctor before having an MRI.
Medtronic DBS has been studied by clinical researchers for decades. DBS is not an experimental or brand-new medical treatment. Only the Medtronic DBS Therapy system has been rigorously assessed with level one evidence and is FDA approved for people with Parkinson's who had recent onset of movement symptoms as well as those with longer-standing movement symptoms. Deep brain stimulation systems offered by other companies are approved only for patients with advanced Parkinson's.
Medtronic DBS systems are MR Conditional which means they are safe for MRI scans only under certain conditions. If the conditions are not met, the MRI could cause tissue heating especially at the implanted lead(s) in the brain which may result in serious and permanent injury or death. Before having an MRI, always talk with the doctor who manages your DBS Therapy to determine your eligibility and discuss potential benefits and risks of MRI. For further information, please call Medtronic at 800-328-0810.
Falowski S, Safriel Y, Ryan MP, Hargens L. The rate of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with deep brain stimulation. Stereotact Funct Neurosurg. 2016;94(3):147-153.