Parkinson's Disease - Brown Neurosurgery

Parkinson’s Disease

Overview

Parkinson’s Disease is a common neurologic disorder whose cardinal symptoms are tremor at rest, slowness and stiffness. In addition, many people with Parkinson’s have difficulty with walking due to problems with balance or “freezing,” have increased fatigue, difficulty sleeping, difficulty speaking, and problems with attention and cognition, especially in advanced disease.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a proven technology that typically results in significant improvement of motor problems associated with Parkinson’s Disease. DBS can improve tremor, slowness and stiffness, and in certain cases can improve walking and sleep. DBS can also help reduce so-called ON-OFF fluctuations due to medications for Parkinson’s. Recent studies suggest that those who undergo DBS at a relatively earlier stage of the disease can sustain a greater improvement in quality of life over a longer time. Patients with “tremor-dominant” forms of Parkinson’s may be eligible for additional forms of DBS and for a new, less-invasive treatment: focused ultrasound.

Patients with Parkinson’s 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.