How state-of-the-art tech allows DBS upgrades without extra head surgery

A pocket adapter kit allows Parkinson’s patients with a conventional deep brain stimulation (DBS) system to upgrade to a system with customisable stimulation options without undergoing another head surgery

Deep brain stimulation is a therapy option for people living with Parkinson’s disease who experience abnormal neural activities. In order to regulate these activities, a stimulator, also referred to as an implantable pulse generator (IPG), is placed under the skin just below the collar bone.

The stimulator sends mild electrical impulses to the brain via two insulated cables called leads. While the implantation of the device is a standard procedure, the leads need to be placed through head surgery.

Through the pocket adapter, DBS patients can now benefit from Boston Scientific’s Vercise™ DBS rechargeable system with battery longevity of up to 25 years, and also the Vercise PC™ non-rechargeable DBS system. The stimulator can be replaced with a single incision in the already existing implant pocket.

Watch Professor François Alesch of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical University Vienna, explain the technology in the video below:

Physicians can then use the system’s unique current steering technology to precisely target affected brain areas and thus tailor and maintain therapy according to the individual patient’s needs.

With the smallest IPG footprint and a shape with gentle contours, the Vercise™ stimulator has been designed for patient comfort. A wireless remote control and charging system allow patients to switch the device on and off and to easily recharge the system while active.

This article is sponsored by Boston Scientific. The information in this article is given for information purposes only and does not represent an endorsement by Parkinson’s Europe of any particular treatments, products or companies. This article is not a substitute for advice from your doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. Parkinson’s Life makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness or accuracy of information provided.