Living with a DBS implant
Understand the key steps required to support effective self-care and proper device management once therapy has commenced.
Using the DBS programmer
Instructions will be provided for operating the programmer that accompanies the DBS device. For individuals with a Percept™ rechargeable device, regular battery checks are required to ensure ongoing therapy delivery.
Attend all scheduled check-ups with the clinician managing DBS therapy. Any changes in symptoms should be reported promptly.
During these appointments, the clinician will:
- Confirm that the DBS system is functioning correctly
- Adjust stimulation settings to optimise symptom control
- Check the neurostimulator battery to determine whether replacement may be required
Patients should contact their clinician if there are concerns about therapy performance or if symptom relief is not being achieved. For questions about the implanted device, Medtronic Patient Services can be contacted on 1800 652 972, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. AEST. In a medical emergency, 000 should be called immediately.
Situations where the clinician should be contacted include:
- Experiencing pain, redness, or swelling at the scalp, neck, or chest
- Lack of symptom relief when the neurostimulator is turned on
- Pain or discomfort during stimulation (the neurostimulator should be turned off before seeking advice)
- Unexpected changes in essential tremor symptoms
- Loss of the patient programmer or any charging system component
This is the front and back of a sample Medtronic patient ID card that identifies a patient's implanted devices.
Always carry a patient identification card indicating the presence of an implanted device. The clinician will provide Medtronic with the necessary information to issue this card. This information is also used to track the implanted device in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Patients are responsible for ensuring their contact and physician details remain current, and for updating Medtronic if there are any changes to address, phone number, or managing clinician.
What is DBS therapy
Learn how DBS therapy may help reduce troublesome movement disorder symptoms and support everyday activities.¹
Information contained herein is not medical advice and should not be used as an alternative to speaking with your doctor. Discuss indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, adverse events and any further information with your health care professional. Please refer to the product insert or Instructions for Use for a complete list of indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions and other important medical information. Always follow the Instructions for Use.
1 Medtronic DBS therapy for Parkinson's disease and essential tremor clinical summary, 2015.