Ask the MD: Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease

Rachel Dolhun, MD, movement disorder specialist and vice president of medical communications at The Michael J. Fox Foundation, discusses deep brain stimulation (DBS), the most common surgical procedure for Parkinson's disease. In the right candidate, DBS can ease motor symptoms, decrease medication needs and improve quality of life. But like all currently available therapies, it's not a cure, and it doesn't work for everyone. Watch the video to learn who can benefit from DBS, what symptoms it treats and how the procedure is done.

The "Ask the MD" series is intended as an educational resource for people with Parkinson's and their loved ones. Please consult with your personal healthcare provider to address individual medical questions.

"Ask the MD" has been made possible through the leadership of members of our Parkinson's Disease Education Consortium in conjunction with The Albert B. Glickman Parkinson's Disease Education Program. These partners' support allows us to furnish high-quality educational content to the Parkinson's community while maintaining our commitment to allocate donor dollars to high-impact research. Editorial control of all Michael J. Fox Foundation-published content rests solely with the Foundation.


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[tedhoward]

I have Parkinsons...and been on meds for approximately two years...artane(tryhexiphen generic)and carbidopa-levodopa...just informed about DBS...My question is...why is Mr. Fox does not have the DBS ?