Deep Brain Stimulation at Darroch Brain & Spine Institute of Doctors Medical Center Helping Improve Quality of Life for Neurological Patients

Modesto, Calif. – The Darroch Brain & Spine Institute of Doctors Medical Center offers patients suffering from neurological disorders a chance to change their lives for the better with the deep brain stimulation procedure.

There are many people living with movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor, who are unable to obtain sufficient relief through medications or physical therapy alone. While not a cure, the deep brain stimulation procedure can help reduce the severity of the disease and improve a patient’s quality of life.

“Deep brain stimulation serves as an avenue of hope for those who were previously unable to obtain system relief,” said Benjamin Remington, M.D. FAANS, Neurosurgeon at Darroch Brain & Spine Institute. “Tremors, involuntary movements and muscle rigidity are the symptoms that generally improve the most. The surgery can help reduce the fluctuating response to medications that is seen in later stages of Parkinson’s disease.”

Deep brain stimulation involves placing a small electrode into specific targets within a patient’s brain. These targets are specific to each disease and are identified on special MRIs prior to the procedure. The electrode is then connected to a neurostimulator (similar to a pacemaker), which is implanted under the skin below the collarbone. Electric pulses from the neurostimulator are carried by the electrode to the target in the brain. In most cases, patients stay in the hospital for one to two nights after the initial procedure before going home. Following the procedure, many patients can reduce their medication doses, therefore reducing side effects.

“This procedure provides our neurological patients with the opportunity to set the clock back on their disease and live a more active life,” Dr. Remington explained.

The Darroch Brain & Spine Institute uses a multidimensional approach when working with neurological patients. Dr. Remington, who is board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery, tailors each patient’s treatment plan to help meet his or her needs. Ancillary measures, such as physical and occupational therapy, are also available as needed.

To learn more about deep brain stimulation, call (833) 295-7822 or visit www.dmc-neurospine.com.