Introduction
Until the discovery of the drug levodopa in the 1960s, surgery was one of the few treatments available for people with Parkinson’s. But once levodopa became an established therapy, the use of surgery was largely discontinued, except to help people who had drug-resistant symptoms.
Medication continues to be the main treatment for Parkinson’s and there are various types available which offer effective symptom control. But such medication can be complicated and may bring with it unwanted side effects, and for some people it may not provide adequate symptom control, especially those who have had Parkinson’s for some time.
In recent years, there have been many advances in surgical techniques, neuro-imaging and computer technology. These make surgery more viable, helping to replace and/or restore the cells that produce dopamine. This is, of course, an area of ongoing research.
Although some surgical techniques can provide good symptom control, surgery is not suitable for everyone and must be discussed carefully with your doctor. It is important to remember that surgery is not a cure for Parkinson’s and does not slow its progression, but it can provide effective control and a better quality of life for some people for whom medication is no longer as effective. Most people continue to take Parkinson’s medication after surgery although dosage can sometimes be reduced.
