Essential Tremor

Essential Tremor (ET) is a condition in which shaking of the hands, head & neck, and even voice may be present, and typically manifests during movement (unlike tremor in Parkinson’s Disease, which is more prominent at rest).  In some cases, tremor may be so severe that patients have difficulty with a variety of routine daily activities, such as eating & drinking, getting dressed, writing, and participating in work or hobbies that require manual dexterity and fine control.  Medications are helpful in some cases, but many remain with disabling tremor despite these.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) and focused ultrasound are proven technologies that can significantly reduce tremor to improve motor function and quality of life when medications are insufficient.  The optimal procedure will depend on each patient’s condition and goals.

Patients with Essential Tremor are evaluated in a multidisciplinary movement disorders clinic by multiple specialists over a single day.  The team assesses each patient individually to determine whether a surgical option is appropriate, and to recommend a particular course of treatment based upon each person’s medical condition, disease pattern, and life goals.  In addition to allowing us to learn about important aspects of each patient’s condition and needs, this comprehensive evaluation helps patients learn about their own condition and ultimately to make the best decisions for themselves.

• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) of the VIM Thalamus
• Focused Ultrasound Thalamotomy

Division of Functional and Epilepsy Neurosurgery 

Comprehensive Movement Disorders Center