Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
Advanced DBS Care for Movement Disorders
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center was the first hospital in Massachusetts to offer this groundbreaking treatment.
At Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), our neurologists are leaders in providing advanced care for patients with movement disorders such as tremor, dystonia, and Parkinson’s disease — especially when medications are no longer effective.
As the first hospital in Massachusetts to offer deep brain stimulation (DBS), BIDMC has been at the forefront of this transformative therapy from the start. When you come to our program, you’ll first meet with a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders. Your neurologist will guide you through evaluation and testing, determine whether DBS is right for you, and collaborate closely with a neurosurgeon who performs the procedure.
DBS uses a surgically implanted device called a neurostimulator — similar to a heart pacemaker — to deliver electrical stimulation to targeted areas in the brain that control movement. After surgery, your neurologist will continue to monitor your progress and fine-tune the stimulator during outpatient visits to help you achieve the best possible symptom control.
Our multidisciplinary team includes expert neurologists, neurosurgeons, nurses, and allied specialists who are highly experienced in every phase of DBS care — from careful candidate selection and surgical planning to microelectrode recording, post-operative management, and long-term follow-up.
Request Appointment Call 617-667-0519
What Is Deep Brain Stimulation?
Deep brain stimulation is a therapy that delivers high-frequency, low-current electrical stimulation to structures deep within the brain. During surgery, a neurosurgeon places electrodes in specific brain regions and secures them to your skull. These electrodes are connected by wires under the skin to a small "battery" in your chest called a pulse generator.
Your neurologist will also be in the room to provide comprehensive care and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
DBS was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for tremor in 1997, Parkinson's disease in 2002, and dystonia in 2003 (under humanitarian conditions).
Conditions Treated with DBS
- Parkinson's Disease
- Essential Tremor
- Dystonia
For questions about Deep Brain Stimulation or to schedule a DBS appointment, please contact:
Jocelyn Gutierrez, DBS Coordinator
617-632-7246, Option 4
Related Stories
Deep Brain Stimulation and New Technology Helping Patient Live Life to the Fullest
Edwin Rivera received Deep Brain Stimulation treatment to help manage his Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
Read More