If you are interested in DBS, the
following points are often used to determine if a person is a candidate. Not
all people with Parkinson's disease are suitable for DBS, and even when
eligible, each person responds differently to the effects of DBS.
Remember, only a
specialised multidisciplinary team of physicians can determine if DBS is right
for you.
You may be a candidate if:
- your
Parkinson's drugs are no longer working well and you are suffering from
their side effects
- you
have shown benefit now, or in the past from levodopa therapy
- your
symptoms are not adequately controlled by medications
- you are physically able to endure the surgery, and are able to
cooperate by answering questions and following directions during the
surgery
- you do
not have significant cognitive decline or dementia
- you
understand the nature of the therapy and are able to operate the neurostimulator
control tools
- you are available for periodic follow-up visits.
When you see your doctor, be prepared with a set
of
questions to ask your doctor 
