Surgical techniques available to treat Parkinson’s disease
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) (thalamic, pallidal, subthalamic stimulation and other target)
- Lesioning (pallidotomy, thalamotomy and subthalamotomy)
- Infusion of chemicals in the basal ganglia (the part of the brain affected by Parkinson’s
- Gamma knife surgery
- Brain implants using foetal brain tissue or possibly other implants in the future
It’s important to know what your choices are so that you can make the right decision about your treatment. Your doctor and nurse will be able to help you and your family make the right decision.
- What surgical treatments are available and how do I know which type of surgery might be beneficial to me?
- What is the eligibility criteria? Are these available on the National Health Service?
- How much does it cost?
- What does this treatment involve?
- Will it stop or alter my disease progression?
- Is there an upper or lower age limit to receive this treatment?
- How does it differ from other surgical techniques?
- How long should I wait before considering this as a treatment option?
- Will this treatment prevent me from any activities after the operation?
- What benefits can I expect to have?
- What are the long term benefits?
- What are the disadvantages of having surgery?
- Can I stop my medication after I have received surgery?
- Can I talk to a patient who has already undertaken surgery