Frequently Asked Questions

DBS is a surgical treatment that involves implanting thin electrodes into specific regions of the brain. These electrodes are connected to a pacemaker-like device (IPG) placed under the skin of the chest. The IPG sends continuous electrical pulses to the brain to regulate abnormal signals that cause movement or psychiatric symptoms.

Candidacy is determined by several factors: your diagnosis (Parkinson's, ET, Dystonia, OCD, or Tourette), how long you've had symptoms, your response to medications, and your overall health. I personally review every medical record submitted to our team to provide an initial assessment of candidacy.

DBS is reversible and adjustable, which is one of its primary advantages over older "lesioning" surgeries or Focused Ultrasound (FUS). The electrodes can be removed if necessary, and the stimulation settings can be adjusted as your condition changes over time.

As with any brain surgery, there are risks, including infection, hemorrhage (bleeding), and hardware complications. However, the risk of a serious permanent complication is low (typically 1-3% in experienced hands). I discuss these risks in detail during our consultation.

For most international patients, we recommend a 10 to 14-day stay. This allows for pre-operative imaging and testing, the surgery itself, a few days of hospital recovery, and at least 2-3 initial programming sessions before you fly home.

While we do not work directly with international insurance providers, we provide all the necessary medical documentation, itemized billing, and surgical reports required for you to seek reimbursement from your provider if they offer out-of-network international coverage.

We provide detailed programming parameters for your local neurologist. If you do not have a local DBS specialist, we offer telemedicine consultations to guide you through adjustments using your patient programmer device. Many modern systems also allow for limited remote programming.

It depends on the device. Non-rechargeable batteries typically last 3-5 years. Rechargeable systems can last 15-25 years but require the patient to charge the device weekly. We will choose the system that best fits your lifestyle.