This article explores the various options for Parkinson surgery aimed at controlling motor symptoms when medications are no longer effective in improving the patient’s condition.
When is surgical intervention for Parkinson’s disease considered?
Surgical procedures are not intended to provide a complete cure for Parkinson’s disease, but rather seek to alleviate intractable symptoms. These options are typically considered after the body stops responding to medications. In the case of deep brain stimulation, this option is discussed with patients who have had the disease for four years or more.
Options for Parkinson surgery
There are several procedures that can be followed depending on the patient’s condition, the most prominent of which are:
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): This is the most common option, where a device is implanted to send electrical signals to the affected area to reduce muscle stiffness, tremors, and slowness of movement. This procedure is characterized by rapid recovery and may allow the patient to reduce the dose of Parkinson’s medication, thereby easing its side effects.
- Drug Pump Implantation: A technique which involves implanting a pump near the intestines that secretes carbidopa and levodopa.
- Lesioning (Destroying specific parts of the brain): These are currently rare, irreversible procedures that require a longer recovery time, including:
- Thalamotomy: Used to control severe tremors on one side of the body.
- Subthalamotomy: Aims to treat muscle stiffness, slowness of movement, and tremors.
- Pallidotomy: Helps improve balance, facilitate movement, and reduce stiffness, while also increasing the effectiveness of medications in advanced stages.
Understanding Parkinson’s disease and its symptoms
Parkinson’s disease occurs as a result of damage to the cells that secrete dopamine in the brain. When the level of this substance drops by 60-80%, Parkinson’s symptoms begin to appear, including:
- Motor disorders: Such as resting tremors, slowness of movement, stiffness of the limbs and neck, and loss of balance.
- Other changes: Including a masked facial expression, speech difficulties, and in late stages, dementia or memory problems may appear.
- Non-motor symptoms: Especially in the juvenile type (affecting those between 21 and 40 years old), such as loss of smell, constipation, and sleep and mood disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parkinson’s treatment
What is Parkinson’s disease?
It is a chronic neurological disease that progresses slowly, affecting the motor system and cognitive abilities due to a deficiency of dopamine in the brain.
Can surgery cure Parkinson’s disease?
Currently, there is no treatment that completely eliminates the disease, but pharmacological and surgical Parkinson’s treatment options are available to control symptoms and improve quality of life.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s?
They vary between tremors in the hands, slowness of movement, muscle stiffness, and difficulty with balance, in addition to changes in speech and facial features.
Are there complications associated with the disease?
Yes, the disease may be accompanied by other health problems such as depression, insomnia, and sleep disorders.
Can the onset of Parkinson’s be prevented or avoided?
Because the exact and definitive causes of the condition are not known, preventing the disease is difficult and currently unavailable.
How can one adapt to living with Parkinson’s?
This can be achieved by seeking early medical help, exercising, talking with relatives for support, and consulting a psychiatrist when feeling depressed.
When should you visit a doctor immediately?
You should see a specialist if you notice the following signs:
- The appearance of unexplained tremors in the hands or limbs.
- Sudden difficulty in balance or a frequent tendency to fall.
- Noticeable muscle stiffness that hinders daily movement.
- Clear changes in the ability to speak or slurring.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team