Deep Brain Stimulation (“DBS”) Anatomy

Principle: An impulse generator (“IPG”) implanted underneath the skin inferior to the clavicle is connected by wires running subcutaneously to stimulator electrodes implanted in the brain. The IPG sends continuous electrical pulses (frequency and amplitude can be customized and “titrated” to effect for each patient) through the electrodes to targeted areas of the brain that block abnormal brain signals that cause symptoms. Most commonly used to treat Parkinson’s disease that is not well controlled with medications.

• Anatomy

  Electrodes are typically placed bilaterally and can be placed on any combination of the subthalamic nucleus, globes pallidus interna, and/or thalamus. Final placement location(s) are customized per patient.

• Subthalamic nucleus

  Typical placement location. Placement here can treat all major symptoms of Parkinson’s including tremor, slowness of movement, rigidity, walking, and balance.

• Globes pallidus interna

  Electrodes may be placed here as adjunct to subthalamic nucleus placement. Less effective for treatment of walking and balance symptoms.

• Thalamus

  Only effective for treating tremor and rigidity symptoms — thus, not typically placed here for treatment of Parkinson’s