Risks

Although deep brain stimulation is generally considered to be low risk, any type of surgery has the risk of complications. Also, the brain stimulation itself can cause side effects.

Surgery risks

Deep brain stimulation involves creating small holes in the skull to implant the electrodes into the brain tissue as well as performing surgery to implant the device that contains the batteries under the skin in the chest. Complications of surgery may include:

• Misplacement of leads
• Bleeding in the brain
• Stroke
• Infection
• Breathing problems
• Nausea
• Heart problems
• Seizure

Possible side effects after surgery

Side effects associated with deep brain stimulation may include:

• Seizure
• Infection
• Headache
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Stroke
• Hardware complications, such as an eroded lead wire
• Temporary pain and swelling at the implantation site

A few weeks after the surgery, the device will be turned on and the process of finding the best settings for you begins. Some settings may cause side effects, but these often improve with further adjustments of your device.

Because there have been infrequent reports that the DBS therapy affects the movements needed for swimming, the Food and Drug Administration recommends consulting with your doctor and taking water safety precautions before swimming.

Possible side effects of stimulation

• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Muscle tightness of the face or arm
• Speech problems
• Balance problems
• Lightheadedness
• Vision problems, such as double vision
• Unwanted mood changes, such as anger and depression