OP for essential tremor – the deep brain stimulator | Is essential tremor curable?

OP for essential tremor – the deep brain stimulator

The surgery for essential tremor is the implantation of the deep brain stimulator (THS), a device often referred to as a “brain pacemaker“, as it is perhaps known from the therapy of Parkinson’s disease. This is the implantation of an electrode into a region of the brain – the nucleus ventralis intermedius thalami (Vim) – by means of a complex neurosurgical operation. The exact mechanisms are very complex and not yet fully understood.

Ultimately, a modulation of the vim, which plays an important role in the development of essential tremor and belongs to the so-called tremor network, occurs. The electrode is then connected via cables under the skin to a small device that is implanted under the collarbone, similar to a pacemaker. This allows the THS to be readjusted at any time at a later date using a magnet.

This operation should of course only be performed by designated specialist centers. Although the implantation of a THS is a comparatively safe operation, it is nevertheless an operation on the brain and involves certain risks. Therefore, it should only be used in cases of severe symptoms, if the drug therapy has failed despite sufficient dosage.

In these cases, however, the surgery is very successful, with reported improvements in symptoms of up to 80%, so that very severely affected patients are often able to lead a “normal” life again. Of course, the implantation has risks, just like any other operation. These include the general risks of surgery such as post-operative bleeding, cerebral haemorrhage, damage to nerves and vessels, injury to surrounding structures, especially brain damage and, of course, risks of anesthesia.

Infections of the wound can also occur. A further risk is always the failure of the measure. Overall, however, the risks associated with a THS implantation can be classified as rather low, since each step is planned very carefully in advance by a team of specialists.If you are considering the implantation of a brain stimulator, your neurosurgeon will inform you in detail about all individual risks.