Last month we discussed DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) and its efficacy as a Parkinson's treatment. The stats are being gathered on the benefit of such therapy, and they are pretty positive! Several of our Parkie friends have undergone the DBS procedure - some with excellent
results, others not.

Remember, DBS is NOT a cure. The method can be likened to a heart pacemaker. An electrode is surgically placed in the area of the brain that correlates to an individual's worst symptoms - tremor, balance and gait difficulties, upper body movement, etc. The electrode is then inserted into a "charging" unit, usually placed behind the ear. Then a lead wire is run to an operating control and battery unit placed in the chest. The control is turned off and on by a hand-held magnet device.

Yes, one might feel like the Bionic Man or Woman, but remarkable results have been realized especially with tremor-dominant cases. (See this link for one report: )

 

http://www.billingsclinic.com/library/healthguide/IllnessConditions/topic.asp?HWID=hw90970

PLEASE NOTE THAT FDA HAD ONLY APPROVED DBS OF THE THALMUS FOR TREMOR AT THE TIME OF THIS ARTICLE. STN (OR SUBTHALMIC NUCLEUS) STIMULATION HAS RECENTLY BEEN FDA APPROVED, TREATING RIGIDITY, BRADYKINESIA, AND GAIT/BALANCE.)

A more recent media report on DBS  http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/02/21/60minutes/main330173.shtml

The procesure is not always successful, as with any surgery or treatment. The frequency best suited for individual symptoms requires frequent trips to the doctor for adjustments. One attribute unique to DBS, is that the device and wires can be removed should a problem arise. For information in seeing if this type of treatment is suited for you, contact your doctor.

Another promising surgical treatment is xenotransplantation, specifically fetal porcine cells. Xenotransplanting means transplanting tissue or organs from other animals into the human body. Recently, the story of Jim Finn was televised. While Jim's story is remarkably successful for
him, the possibility of introducing the body to viruses from animal tissue is a grave possibility.

Any invasive procedure (one in which lesioning or opening of the skull occurs) is not without risk. The possibility of a brain bleed, infection, or death must be weighed against quality of life.

We'll take a look at some new discoveries in the fight against Parkinson's in our next issue.