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deep brain stimulation support and learning

Deep Brain Stimulation Learning, Support Group

Undergoing surgery for Deep Brain Stimulation can be a stressful experience for patients and their families. Neurology Solutions sponsors a deep brain stimulation support group monthly to provide a chance to meet and learn from others with Parkinson’s disease who have undergone DBS surgery. Many of our patients report that talking to other patients before having DBS surgery provided them great comfort and helped them reach a decision about surgery.

Individuals in the Austin area who have undergone DBS surgery or are considering this option and their families are welcome to join the DBS Support Group at 2 p.m., the third Friday of every month at Neurology Solutions Movement Disorders Center office.

Developments in Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease

This past year brought several exciting developments in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. From fast-tracking of an antibody being trialed as an immunotherapy drug in cancer treatment to FDA approval of the first medication to treat PD psychosis, researchers are advancing new medications for motor and secondary symptoms of the disease and gaining greater understanding of and potential therapies to slow disease process.

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Strategies for Living Well with Parkinson’s

So you’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. What do you do next? First, understand that Parkinson’s disease affects each person differently and no two cases are exactly the same. There are several concrete steps you can take to gain control of your health and maintain a high quality of life with PD. Read on for strategies for living well with Parkinson’s.

Medtronic deep brain stimulation risks results

Medtronic Deep Brain Stimulation: Precision, Risks & Results

Neurology Solutions Medical Director Dr. Robert Izor has participated in more than 200 Medtronic deep brain stimulation procedures since 2004 with St. David’s Medical Center Neurosurgeon Anant Patel. Using high resolution advanced imaging technology, Dr. Izor and Dr. Patel have been able to precisely target specific areas of the brain signaling motor symptoms, allowing for excellent DBS response and no side effects. This article will lay out the most common risks and results of deep brain stimulation surgery as well as explain why “awake DBS” is the gold standard for optimal precision.

Metabolic Enhancements for Parkinson’s, DBS Topics of Talk

Dr. Robert Izor and the Neurology Solutions care team will lead a panel discussion on key topics of interest to the Parkinson’s community, including treatment options and the latest Parkinson’s research breakthroughs, during an upcoming meeting of the Capital Area Parkinson’s Society. The Neurology Solutions providers panel will discuss Deep Brain Stimulation surgery (DBS) as well as metabolic enhancements for Parkinson’s disease as a way to slow the progression of neurodegenerative disease process.

How can Yoga help Parkinson’s patients?

Yoga is credited with providing benefits such as increased flexibility and stability, reduced stress and better sleep. Recent research also indicates yoga and meditation practice cause structural changes to areas of the brain impacted by PD and contribute to improved memory, cognition and mood.

How can Yoga help Parkinson’s patients and individuals with neurodegenerative diseases?

What is the process for DBS surgery?

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy is used to disrupt the abnormal nerve signals causing motor symptoms in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), tremor and dystonia. DBS implant surgery is a performed in a three-stage process followed by several initial programming sessions.

In this article, we will describe which areas of the brain are targeted for specific conditions and the process for DBS surgery.

Who is a Candidate for Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery?

Deep brain stimulation surgery is generally considered when quality of life is no longer acceptable and medicine no longer addresses symptoms of disorders such as Parkinson’s, essential tremor and dystonia effectively. Research indicates that deep brain stimulation’s benefits may be just as promising for people in the earlier stages of Parkinson’s, and individuals at minimal risk who can get benefit from the treatment should consider this option. Read on to find out if you are a candidate for DBS.

Deep Brain Stimulation for Movement Disorders

Patients with a movement disorder such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia and essential tremor often consider deep brain stimulation (DBS) implant surgery to stabilize their symptoms, reduce the need for medications and to provide more consistent relief of symptoms in medication off-periods.

During this surgery, the surgeon implants thin insulated wires called electrodes into one or both sides of the brain to stimulate areas of the brain that control movement. Unlike other brain surgeries to address movement disorders, DBS does not damage brain tissue and can be reversed if other treatments become available.

medications for secondary symptoms Parkinsons disease

Treatments for secondary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

The changes in the brain that cause motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease spread gradually but in time they often begin to affect mental functions, including memory and the ability to pay attention, make sound judgments and plan the steps needed to complete a task, known as “executive function.” Medication treatment is available for secondary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease affecting mental function, such as dementia, psychosis and impaired executive function.