After Surgery – DBS Therapy

Medtronic Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Therapy for Parkinson's disease is a long-term treatment that requires your involvement – as well as that of your healthcare team. Following the implantation of the Medtronic DBS System, you'll work closely with your team to make sure the treatment meets your specific needs.

Recovery

The length of hospitalization for implantation of the DBS System varies, but is often just a few days for the pre-operative tests and implant surgery. Most individuals recover quickly and experience little discomfort while healing. However, doctors advise against overexertion for several weeks after implantation.

Your doctor will decide when to turn on your neurostimulator. It's usually turned on after healing is complete (about 4 weeks).

Checkups and Monitoring

You may not experience immediate symptom relief from the treatment. In fact, it may take 12 to 18 months after the procedure to reach maximum effect. Visits to your clinic for initial programming after surgery and periodic adjustments are a routine part of DBS treatment.

During these checkups, your doctor may evaluate your comfort and range of motion in the area of the neurostimulator and extension. He or she may also take x-rays of the neurostimulation system.

Adjusting Stimulation Levels

Your clinician will program your neurostimulator so it meets your symptom control needs and minimizes any side effects. He or she will also schedule follow-up appointments to further maximize the benefits of the treatment. It may take several visits to adjust the stimulation before the right settings are determined.

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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.

Last updated: 3 Aug 2008