In recent decades, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) has transformed the landscape of neurology, offering hope to thousands of patients living with movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor. This cutting-edge therapy combines advanced neurosurgery with neurotechnology to regulate abnormal brain activity and restore smoother, more controlled movements.
What Is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?
Deep Brain Stimulation is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves implanting fine electrodes into specific areas of the brain responsible for motor control. These electrodes are connected to a small device, called a neurostimulator or “brain pacemaker,” placed under the skin of the chest. The stimulator sends controlled electrical impulses to modulate dysfunctional brain signals that cause tremors, rigidity, and other abnormal movements.
Unlike traditional surgery that destroys brain tissue, DBS does not remove or damage brain structures. Instead, it works by fine-tuning neural activity—making it adjustable, reversible, and personalized for each patient.
Conditions Treated with DBS
DBS is primarily used to treat neurological conditions that do not respond well to medication alone. These include:
Parkinson’s disease: Reducing tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement while improving medication response.
Essential tremor: Significantly decreasing involuntary shaking, especially in hands and arms.
Dystonia: Controlling involuntary muscle contractions and abnormal postures.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): In select cases, DBS may be used to manage severe, treatment-resistant OCD.
Researchers are also exploring its use in epilepsy, Tourette syndrome, and depression, expanding the boundaries of what DBS can achieve.
How the Procedure Works
DBS treatment is typically carried out in two stages:
Electrode implantation: Using advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scans, neurosurgeons pinpoint the exact brain region responsible for movement abnormalities—commonly the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or globus pallidus interna (GPi). Thin electrodes are then precisely placed in these areas.
Neurostimulator placement and programming: The stimulator device is implanted beneath the chest skin and connected to the electrodes via thin wires. After recovery, a neurologist programs the stimulator externally to deliver optimal electrical signals tailored to each patient’s symptoms.
Programming and follow-up are critical parts of DBS therapy, requiring collaboration between neurologists and neurosurgeons. Adjustments are made periodically to ensure maximum benefit and minimal side effects.
Benefits of Deep Brain Stimulation
Significant reduction in tremors and motor symptoms
Lower medication requirements, reducing side effects like dyskinesia
Improved mobility, coordination, and independence
Reversible and adjustable—settings can be modified without additional surgery
Enhanced quality of life for patients with advanced movement disorders
In summary, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) represents one of the greatest achievements in modern neurology—merging technology and medicine to restore independence and dignity to people with movement disorders. As awareness and access grow, DBS continues to redefine what is possible in the treatment of neurological diseases.
Dr Mahsa Haghighatzadeh is a distinguished neurologist specializing in movement disorders, with her medical training and sub‐specialty fellowship conducted in […]
