FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS DBS THERAPY FOR DYSTONIA

QUESTIONS ABOUT DBS THERAPY FOR DYSTONIA

Further questions should be written down to ask a medical professional.

WHAT ARE THE IMPLANTED COMPONENTS OF THE DBS SYSTEM?

One or two neurostimulators are needed for dystonia* therapy. The implanted components are:

  • One or two wires (leads) implanted in the brain
  • One or two extensions. Your surgeon will connect the leads to the neurostimulator using extensions that run under the skin from the chest to your neck and head
  • One or two neurostimulators, usually implanted beneath the skin in the chest below the collarbone and connected to the extension (depending on the patient, a surgeon may implant the neurostimulator in the abdomen)

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CAN OTHER PEOPLE SEE THE COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM?

Depending on the 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 the head, but it usually isn't visible under hair.

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WHAT IS THE TYPICAL LENGTH OF HOSPITALISATION FOR TESTS, PROCEDURE, AND RECOVERY?

Most people spend a couple of days at the hospital. Healing can take several weeks. Pain medication should be available for any discomfort at the incision sites.

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IS IT POSSIBLE TO ADJUST THE DEVICE SETTINGS?

The device settings and stimulation levels can be adjusted noninvasively by a clinician using a programming device.

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CAN I HAVE OTHER MEDICAL PROCEDURES WITH THE SYSTEM IMPLANTED?

Consult a doctor before any medical treatment or diagnostic test (for example, MRI, mammograms, electrocautery, or heart defibrillation). Implanted patients should not have diathermy (deep heat treatment) under any circumstances.

See MRI information about deep brain stimulation for dystonia.

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DOES THE DBS SYSTEM MAKE ANY NOISE?

No.

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WHAT IS THE COST OF DBS THERAPY FOR DYSTONIA?

The total cost varies significantly. Please contact a healthcare provider for an estimate of the costs associated with DBS Therapy.

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1

Medtronic data on file.