The main motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD), a degenerative neurological condition, include tremors, stiffness, bradykinesia (slowed movement), and postural instability. The loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra of the brain causes these symptoms because it interferes with regular communication in the brain circuits that regulate movement. In addition to motor problems, persons with Parkinson’s disease may also have non-motor symptoms include discomfort, urgency in the urine, and disturbed sleep. More generally, Prof. Dr. Rupam Borgohain said movement disorders include a range of neurological problems that impact both voluntary and involuntary movements. These conditions include TICS, Myoclonus, Tourette syndrome, essential tremor, and dystonia, all of which include abnormalities in the brain regions that control motor function.
In the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a crucial breakthrough, particularly for individuals whose symptoms are not well managed by medication. Electrodes are implanted into particular brain regions, such as the globus pallidus interna or subthalamic nucleus, during the neurosurgical operation known as DBS. A battery-operated neurostimulator implanted beneath the skin close to the collarbone provides these electrodes with constant electrical impulses. By modifying aberrant brain activity, electrical treatment successfully disrupts the disjointed signals that result in motor symptoms like rigidity and tremors. DBS is reversible and modifiable, allowing for customized programming to maximize symptom control and reduce adverse effects without causing irreversible brain damage, in contrast to previous surgical techniques that damaged brain tissue.
DBS has changed a lot since the FDA approved it in the late 1990s. It was first authorized to treat Parkinson’s tremor, but its uses have now broadened to encompass advanced motor symptoms and, more recently, lower stages of the condition in patients who have had Parkinson’s disease for at least four years and whose motor symptoms are not adequately managed by therapy. According to clinical studies, DBS can result in significant and long-lasting improvements in motor function and quality of life. Patients are frequently able to lower their prescription dosages, which helps to prevent medication-induced side effects such dyskinesias (involuntary movements). DBS is not appropriate for all PD patients, though; there are dangers like infection, stroke, or cognitive abnormalities that need to be carefully evaluated.
From Yashoda Hospital Prof. Dr. Rupam Borgohain said DBS therapy has been further improved by technological advancements. In order to increase effectiveness and decrease side effects, modern systems include directional leads, which more accurately direct electrical currents to target specific brain regions. New closed-loop DBS devices promise more flexible and effective symptom management by automatically modifying stimulation in real-time based on brain activity. The precision of electrode insertion has increased due to enhanced imaging methods and intraoperative monitoring, which lowers surgical risks and improves results. The therapeutic potential of DBS is being expanded by research into uses outside of Parkinson’s disease, such as essential tremor, dystonia, and even mental health issues.
In order to guarantee fair access to treatment and enhance everyone’s quality of life, World Brain Day 2025, observed on July 22, emphasizes the need for a lifetime commitment to brain health and the need of safeguarding neurological well-being at every stage of life, from early development to old age.
So, Deep brain stimulation is a significant advancement in the treatment of movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. Many patients have significant symptom relief and an improvement in their quality of life because to DBS, which modifies faulty brain circuits through tailored electrical stimulation. DBS is a key component of contemporary neurological therapy for movement disorders because of ongoing advancements in device technology, surgical methods, and patient selection standards that improve its safety, efficacy, and application.
