DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) is an extremely advanced procedure, but patients with implanted pacemakers can encounter some difficulties in post-operative care. Dr. Dariusz Koziorowski, MD, told us how we can remedy them.
Parkinson's disease: Deep brain stimulation
Published April 11, 2023 10:59
Dariusz Koziorowski, MD:
- Deep brain stimulation is widely used to treat movement disorders.
- It is a method for advanced Parkinson's disease.
- This is blocking with high-frequency electric current, those brain structures that are over-stimulated due to pathological processes in the course of Parkinson's disease.
- The treatments are being carried out in several, already experienced centers.
- There are studies that confirm the effectiveness of this treatment method.
- Deep brain stimulation reduces symptoms and consequently drug treatment, but has no effect on the disease progression itself.
- There are several contraindications, although the presence of cognitive impairment does not disqualify for the infusion method.
- It is important to closely observe the patient to pinpoint the right time to start treatment.
- The pacemaker implantation process is reimbursed, but there are no corresponding procedures in post-operative care.
- Proper pricing of dual-channel pacemakers is needed.
- There are discussions with the Ministry of Health to introduce a qualification procedure that will be separately priced.
- It is important that pacemaker clinics be established to properly take care of patients.
