Deep Brain Stimulation (#DBS), which is one of the most effective treatment options when medical therapy is insufficient, involves delivering electrical current to the brain regions responsible for the disease via thin electrodes placed inside the brain. The aim of this method is to reduce disease symptoms such as tremor, rigidity, and slowness, and enhance patients' quality of life.

#DBS works through a mechanism called "neuromodulation". By delivering controlled electrical current to targeted points in the brain, cell activity in these regions can be suppressed or stimulated.

DBS treatment comes to the forefront in diseases such as Parkinson's, Dystonia (movement disorder characterized by excessive contractions), and Essential Tremor (severe tremor) when medications are insufficient or cause serious side effects.

Thanks to this treatment, many patients who led dependent lives and were disconnected from social life can regain their independence, and a significant portion of them are to their professional lives.

DBS With Up to 20–25 Years of Battery Life and Remote Programming

There are three fundamental features an ideal DBS stimulator should possess:

🔋 Long Battery Life and Rechargeability

In the non-rechargeable batteries used in the past, battery life was limited to 4–6 years, especially for Parkinson's patients.

This period would be even shorter for dystonia patients who require higher electrical currents.

When the battery life expired, a small 30-minute surgical procedure was required to replace the battery.

Today, thanks to technological advancements, externally rechargeable stimulators with a lifespan of up to 20–25 years have entered clinical practice.

This allows patients to continue their treatment for many years without having to undergo battery replacement surgery.

🧭 Directional Lead Technology

New generation DBS stimulators allow the direction of the delivered electrical current to be adjusted.

Much like a lighthouse directing its light in a specific direction, this technology allows brain stimulation to be targeted more precisely.

This both increases treatment effectiveness and contributes to the reduction of possible side effects.

🧲 MRI Compatibility

The MRI compatibility of the DBS stimulator ensures that patients can safely undergo any MRI imaging they may need in the future.

This feature is of great importance for long-term patient follow-up.

Remote Adjustment and Monitoring Opportunities

Today, thanks to the NeuroSphere Remote Connection Technology, which is found in Abbott brand stimulators, patients' DBS settings can be monitored continuously from wherever they are located, within the comfort of their home. With this system:

The need for travel is reduced.

Treatment continuity is ensured.

Physician-patient communication is strengthened.

Distances cease to be an obstacle to seeking treatment.

This text has been prepared for general informational purposes. Since the appropriate treatment method may vary for each patient, a specialist physician must be consulted. These writings are for informational purposes only and do not replace professional medical advice.

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