advances treating Parkinsons

Roundup: 10 Advances in Understanding, Treating Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex multi-system brain disorder impacting movement and the regulation of mood. Strides have been made in understanding the mechanism of PD and ways to prevent neurodegenerative diseases and slow disease progression. From treating depression to dancing to yoga therapy to implementing the comprehensive MEND protocol, read on for a roundup of 10 Latest Advances in Understanding and Treating Parkinson’s.

Less invasive Deep Brain Stimulation implant

Neurosurgeon Dr. Anant Patel, who is affiliated with St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, and Neurology Solutions Movement Disorders Center Medical Director Dr. Robert Izor are at the forefront of a less invasive, more precise Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) implant procedure. The new surgical technique streamlines the process for undergoing DBS surgery—requiring one less procedure and five fewer incisions.

The new DBS implant technique uses the latest imaging and surgical programming equipment and eliminates the need for placement of bone marker screws prior to DBS surgery.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

New Medications available for managing Parkinson’s Disease

There have been several exciting recent developments in the realization of advanced treatment options and new medications for Parkinson’s disease. Patients with PD should consider seeking a medication review at least annually to see if they can benefit from the latest developments for treatment of PD.

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