Potential side effects of deep brain stimulation

Many side effects of DBS are usually mild and transient in nature, and can be managed non-invasively by adjusting the stimulation parameters.

Side effects of DBS may include the following:

• Tingling sensation (paresthesia)
• Worsening of symptoms
• Speech problems (dysarthria, dysphasia )
• Dizziness or lightheadedness (disequilibrium)
• Facial and limb muscle weakness or partial paralysis (paresis)
• Abnormal, involuntary muscle contractions (dystonia, dyskinesia )
• Movement problems or reduced coordination
• Jolting or shocking sensation
• Numbness (hypoesthesia)

Several follow-up visits may be necessary in order to find the right stimulation settings to optimize symptom control and minimize side effects.

 

Potential surgical risk

Implanting the DBS system carries the same kinds of risks associated with any other brain surgery. The risk of potential surgical complications with DBS is similar to those encountered with other stereotactic neurosurgical procedures (1-3%). In general, the better a centre’s training and experience, the better its results.

Risks may include:

• Intracranial hemorrhage
• Leakage of cerebral fluid surrounding the brain
• Seizure
• Infection
• Allergic response to implanted materials
• Temporary or permanent neurological complications
• Confusion or attention problems
• Pain at the surgery sites
• Headaches

Your doctor can provide more information about these risks. Additional information can also be found in the Activa^®Therapy patient manual, available through the EPDA website (www.epda.eu.com/medInfo/dbs).