Brain pacemaker treatment (Deep Brain Stimulation - DBS) is a surgical method that enables controlled electrical current to be delivered to specific areas of the brain by placing electrodes in these regions, and particularly controls the symptoms of movement disorders. Working with a system similar to a cardiac pacemaker, this method does not completely eliminate diseases but significantly improves the patient's quality of life.
✓What is Brain Stimulation Surgery?
Certain neurological diseases such as Parkinson's, epilepsy, and tremor can cause symptoms that result from irregular activity in the brain's nervous system, which can create major obstacles in a person's daily activities.
The question "What is brain stimulation surgery?" can be answered as a treatment method applied to improve the quality of life for patients experiencing neurological activity disorders due to neurological disease. Before brain stimulation surgery is performed, a series of detailed examinations, imaging, and neuropsychiatric evaluation tests must be conducted on the patient.
Based on the results of these tests, an expert doctor determines whether brain stimulation surgery will be applied to the patient or not.
Brain stimulation surgery may not be suitable for every patient. It is preferred for patients at a level where they can see significant benefits in improvement of symptoms resulting from their neurological disease following brain stimulation surgery.
✓How is Brain Stimulation Surgery Performed?
Brain stimulation surgery is performed in a manner deemed appropriate by an expert doctor based on the patient's general health condition, medical reports, and examination results. While local anesthesia is preferred in some patients, general anesthesia may be applied in others.
In both cases, the area where the electrodes will be placed is determined with the help of cameras placed inside the patient's skull. Electrodes are placed in the determined region of the brain with the help of devices through small incisions made in the patient's skull.
The incisions are closed with stitches. These electrodes placed in the brain are connected via an extension cable to a battery placed beneath the collarbone or under the rib cage through the skin.
Following the surgery, the patient is kept under observation by an expert doctor. The compatibility of the battery with the electrodes and signs of improvement in the patient's symptoms are regularly monitored under medical supervision.
✓Why is Brain Stimulation Implanted?
Brain stimulation is a treatment method used to alleviate symptoms in neurological and psychiatric diseases. This method is typically preferred in patients who do not respond to drug therapy. Parkinson's disease; it is an effective method in controlling disorders such as epilepsy and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It also aims to improve the quality of life for patients with tremor, dystonia, depression, and some Alzheimer's patients. Brain stimulation regulates abnormal activity and reduces symptoms by sending electrical signals to specific areas of the brain.
✓How Does Brain Stimulation Work?
Brain stimulation consists of electrodes placed in the brain and a battery placed under the skin. The electrodes send electrical signals to brain areas associated with the disease. These signals regulate the brain's electrical activity and control symptoms. The battery is programmed according to parameters determined by the doctor and can provide electrical current continuously or intermittently. The working principle is customized according to the type of disease and the patient's needs.
✓How is Brain Stimulation Charged?
The charging method for the brain stimulation battery depends on the type of device used. Some batteries are rechargeable, while others are designed as single-use. Rechargeable batteries are charged through magnetic induction method via the skin. Patients typically charge the battery several times a week by placing the charging device over the skin. Charging times vary depending on the battery model but generally take 1-2 hours. The charging process is performed in accordance with the user manual and the doctor's instructions.
✓What are the Risks of Brain Stimulation Surgery?
Brain stimulation surgery is an effective surgical operation method applied to treat certain neurological diseases. Although it is generally considered a safe operation, certain risks that can occur in any surgery also apply to this procedure.
The risks that may occur in brain stimulation surgery can be listed as follows:
Risk of infection at the surgical site
Risk of bleeding in incisions made in the brain or the area where the battery is placed during surgery
Risk of brain tissue swelling after surgery
Speech, chewing, swallowing, and language problems that may result from incorrect placement of the electrodes
Incorrect adjustment of electrodes during surgery may lead to involuntary movements
Risk of malfunction in the battery or cable implanted in the patient during surgery
Risk of depression in the patient after surgery
Generally, the recovery process usually takes several weeks. Doctors monitor the condition and can typically guide you through the process in the following way:
For approximately two weeks after the procedure, avoid all types of heavy or light activity and rest: This can include small things like housework or sexual activity. It is important not to lift anything heavier than 2.25 kilograms.
For at least four to six weeks, avoid moderate or high-intensity activities. This includes exercise and physical work. Most people can return to work or their normal routine after this.
Be careful when moving or stretching: In the first few days after surgery, it is important to avoid certain movements such as raising your hands above your head. Doctors will tell you at this point how long your movements need to be restricted.
Pay attention to home care procedures: Usually, doctors advise what can be done at home regarding the care of the surgical area, and some procedures should not be performed unless otherwise stated. Stitches and staples can be removed approximately 10 to 14 days after surgery. Bandages should remain closed until the needle sites on your head dry. Bandages may need to be checked with the doctor at least once during the day. It is important to follow your doctor's guidance regarding showering after surgery. In such cases, baby shampoos are usually recommended. In this process, it is important to be gentle with the area.
Brain Stimulation: Which Diseases Is It Used For?
Parkinson's Disease: Reduces tremor, rigidity, and slow movement.
Epilepsy: Can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
OCD: Helps control obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
Depression: Alleviates symptoms in cases resistant to medication.
Dystonia: Controls muscle spasms and involuntary movements.
Essential Tremor: Reduces tremor symptoms.
Alzheimer's: Used in research aimed at improving memory and cognitive functions.
How Are Patients with Brain Stimulation Implants Monitored?
After brain stimulation surgery, the patient is examined by a neurology doctor. The electrodes placed on the implanted brain stimulator are adjusted by the neurology doctor using a device resembling a remote control, tailored to the patient's needs.
It is extremely important that patients with brain stimulation implants are regularly monitored by a neurology doctor. The neurology doctor continuously supervises the compatibility of the brain stimulator with the patient, minimizing potential risks the patient may face.
Can the Battery in My Brain Stimulation Implant Be Recharged?
Yes. This is now possible thanks to advancing technological capabilities. Previously used brain stimulators had a lifespan of 5 years. Today, thanks to technological advances, rechargeable batteries with a 25-year lifespan can be used. The power source of your brain stimulator is located in the area beneath your collarbone. When battery replacement becomes necessary, this area is simply opened and the battery can be easily replaced.
Is There a Timing Restriction for Brain Stimulation Surgery?
Brain stimulation surgery is a method applied for treating many different neurological diseases. The timing period may vary depending on which disease it will be applied for. However, it has been found that for many diseases, brain stimulation surgery yields more successful results when performed before the disease progresses significantly.
Is There an Age Limit for Brain Stimulation?
There is no specific age limit for brain stimulation treatment. However, the patient's general health status, suitability for surgical intervention, and the severity of the neurological disease are taken into consideration. Doctor evaluation is of great importance for children or elderly individuals. A detailed evaluation is recommended before surgery.
Is the Battery Replaced?
The lifespan of the implanted battery is approximately 5-6 years. After this period, the old battery can be replaced with a new one in a 15-minute procedure without any intervention on the cables in the brain.
How Does Brain Stimulation Affect Daily Life?
After surgery, the patient can return to work and social life as deemed appropriate by the doctor. The person can easily meet their daily needs on their own and can continue living as a healthy individual.
Can Patients with Brain Stimulation Pass Through Security Devices?
There is no problem with patients who have brain stimulation passing through x-ray and security screening devices.
Is It Harmful for Patients with Brain Stimulation to Exercise or Play Sports?
Patients can exercise appropriately; in fact, an active lifestyle is very important. However, they should avoid contact sports or activities that may cause trauma.
What Are the Surgery Costs?
As of 2026 in Turkey, brain stimulation (Deep Brain Stimulation - DBS) surgery costs at private hospitals vary considerably depending on the choice of hospital and doctor, as well as the quality of the device used. Average prices are shown on our page.