Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson’s Disease

Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D.  Guest: Lauren Jackson, M.D.  Deep brain stimulation is an established management option for Parkinson’s Disease. It’s a neurosurgical procedure in which thin electrodes are implanted into various areas of the brain and then connected to a pulse generator that produces electrical stimulation which modulates abnormal brain activity. The procedure has the potential to improve the quality of life in those with Parkinson’s by reducing motor symptoms including tremor, rigidity and bradykinesia. It also enables a reduction in doses of dopaminergic medications. Who’s a candidate for this procedure? Is there an optimal time in the course of the disease to perform it? What can patients expect in terms of symptom improvement? How long do patients see benefits? These are some of the questions I’ll be asking my guest, Dr. Lauren Jackson, a neurologist from the Department of Neurology at the Mayo Clinic. The topic for this podcast is “Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson’s Disease”.  Connect with us! Mayo Clinic Talks Podcast Season 6 | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development