How Long Does Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery Take?

Regarding the former, there is a promising surgical intervention called Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) which involves placing electrodes in certain parts of the brain. These electrodes apply electrical current to control irregular brain activity and help to ease the severe symptoms caused by several disorders. Although it is a demanding type of therapy, a great number of patients state that DBS gives them a second chance at life.

Regarding the DBS one of the most frequently asked questions is how long it lasts. In this blog, we will describe the day-in and out process of surgery, and this way you will have an overall estimate of the time the surgery will take.

What Are The Indications Of DBS?

DBS is mainly applied to treat movement disorders like parkinsonism, tremors, dystonia, Gilles de la Tourette syndrome, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. However it is useful in different diseases, and its utility for obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain, and epilepsy is being investigated.

Pre-Surgery Preparations

The first step before DBS is a comprehensive examination based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and neurological examination. MRI and CT scans will be performed to locate the areas of the brain that need to be targeted. You may also go through some psychological examinations as you have to be psychologically prepared for the operations and their repercussions.

DBS Surgery

DBS surgery is, however, an effective remedy for Parkinson’s disease, dystonias, and tremors, due to its positive impact on physiological functions by way of the stimulated target site, as a part of the basal ganglia.

However, to weave into the topic with a bit of context, let me explain what rhinoplasty is briefly. DBS surgery typically involves two stages:

Implantation of the electrodes: This operation is the most difficult. A neurosurgeon buries the thin wires (electrodes) in the brain by making a small hole in the skull and reaching the specific part of the brain. This process needs to be precise and sometimes may entitle the use of imaging and diagnostic procedures.

Implantation of the pulse generator: It is normally done less invasively, although it slightly varies from the next type of procedure depending on the specific technique used by the surgeon. The neurosurgeon then places a little gadget, as seen in the picture below like a pacemaker in a human body, beneath the collarbone. They are connected to electrodes fitted inside the brain and to those electrodes, some wires are implanted under the skin.

DBS surgery may take hours depending on circumstances that relate to the duration of the procedure.

Here's a general overview of the procedure:

Anesthesia: You'll be under general anesthesia during the surgery.

Brain Access: The surgeon makes a small incision in your scalp to access the targeted area of your brain.

Electrode Implantation: Tiny electrodes are carefully implanted into the specific brain regions.

Wire Placement: Wires are routed under the skin to connect the electrodes to a device implanted in your chest.

Device Implantation: A small, battery-powered device, similar to a pacemaker, is implanted under the collarbone. This device controls the electrical stimulation.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Complication-wise, although the surgery can range from a few hours, the recovery time can be much longer. After the implantation of the electrodes, the patients are usually hospitalized for a few days to check for formations of any complications. The implantation of the pulse generator is frequently done on an outpatient basis. Causality may take several weeks up to months based on the patient and the type of disorder that was addressed. This period will involve the recovery process of the patients and the regeneration of their strength and this renders the patients independent.

Recovery from DBS surgery involves several stages:

Immediate Post-Surgery: It takes a few days in the hospital to be observed and then for the initial improvement to process.

Short-Term Recovery: After the following weeks the patient should refrain from activities that would require the use of the limb and gradually the normal activities are adopted.

Device Programming: Usually, within weeks of the surgery your doctor will adjust the settings on the stimulation device. Subprocesses could also call for changes to a few elements.

Duration Of DBS Surgery

The duration of the particular surgery is another factor that determines the payment that will be made to the professional.

The total time for a DBS surgery can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

Complexity of the case: In patients with higher symptomatology, or perhaps in patients with certain anatomical considerations, the surgery is likely to take longer.

Number of targets: This is because some of the conditions may necessitate the stimulation of other regions of the brain other than the focal area, thereby increasing the time required for the operation.

Surgical team experience: Sometimes a very experienced team of surgeons can do it in a shorter time than their less experienced team.
The implantation of the electrodes usually ranges from three to six hours on average. The implantation site of the pulse generator is typically a less invasive procedure, which may take not more than an hour.

DBS Associated Risks 

Like any surgery, DBS carries risks, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Seizures
• Stroke
• Mood changes
• Difficulty walking or talking

However, it should be understood that these risks are low, and the effectiveness of the treatment usually outweighs the possible consequences.

What Are The Complications Associated With DBS? 

Complications, rare as they are, may occur in this process. Some possible complications include:

• Device malfunction
• Lead displacement
• Infection also at the implant site
• Implant-site pain
• Behavioral or mood swings

If you experience any concerning symptoms after the surgery, it's crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Conclusion

However, deep brain stimulation is a very elaborate procedure that if properly done may be a blessing to many patients. Surgery and operation usually can take a few hours, but preparation for the intervention and rehabilitation may take several weeks or even months. DBS can be rather helpful for those patients who are candidates for the treatment targeting the mentioned conditions; however, it is crucial to discuss possible benefits and associated risks with the doctor.

FAQ’S

Q1: What is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?
A: Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical procedure that involves implanting a tiny electrode in a specific area of your brain. This electrode delivers electrical impulses to regulate abnormal brain activity, which can help manage symptoms of certain conditions.

Q2:What conditions can be treated with DBS?
A: DBS is primarily used to treat movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. However, it's also being explored for other conditions such as OCD, chronic pain, and epilepsy.

Q3: How long does DBS surgery take?
A: The duration of DBS surgery can vary, but it typically takes several hours. The overall process, including preparation and recovery, can span several weeks or months.

Q4:What happens during DBS surgery?
A:During DBS surgery, a surgeon implants a tiny electrode in a specific area of your brain. This electrode is connected to a device implanted under your collarbone, which controls the electrical stimulation.

Q5:What is the recovery process like after DBS surgery?
Ans: Recovery from DBS surgery you'll spend a few days in the hospital for monitoring, followed by a period of rest and a gradual return to normal activities.

By -Dr Aaksha Shukla | August 01, 2024 | 9 Min Read