Life After DBS Surgery: How to Adjust and Thrive Post-Procedure

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery is an advanced procedure for neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. It involves implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to targeted brain areas, regulating abnormal activity and improving symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. While offering clear benefits, life after DBS surgery requires careful management and follow-up. Knowing what to expect after surgery and how to handle recovery is essential to maximize treatment results and ease daily life transitions.

According to Dr. Gurneet Singh Sawhney, “The key to a successful outcome after DBS surgery lies in understanding the individual patient’s needs, fine-tuning the device settings, and offering ongoing support.”

Being one of the best neurosurgeons in Mumbai, Dr. Gurneet Singh Sawhney specializes in advanced brain and spine surgeries, including DBS. With extensive experience in treating movement disorders and a focus on thorough pre-surgery evaluation, detailed post-surgery support, and ongoing patient education, he ensures each person receives personalized care and guidance throughout their DBS journey for the best possible outcomes.

Wondering what the recovery process will look like? Let’s dive into what you can expect right after your DBS surgery.

•  Initial Recovery Phase:

The initial few days following DBS surgery are usually spent in the hospital. The patient might feel pain at the site of surgery, but most of the recovery will be centered on programming the device and its settings.

• Post-Operative Care:

You will be seeing your neurosurgeon for follow-up visits in order to inspect the incision site and assess the functioning of the DBS device. These visits are a mandatory part of adjusting the settings to fine-tune and maximize device function.

• Improvement in Symptoms:

The symptoms of many patients start to improve, especially with movement disorders. It might, however, take a while before the device settings are optimally set for best benefit.

• Potential Side Effects:

Temporary side effects such as mild dizziness or headaches may happen during calibration of the device, but tend to resolve promptly.

• Medication Adjustments:

Your physician will decrease the intake of drugs you used to manage symptoms, since the DBS device starts working.

Curious about how long the recovery will take? Let’s break down the typical recovery timeline following DBS surgery.

• Week 1 to Week 2:

In the first two weeks, rest and avoid strenuous activity. Stitches or dressings are removed; follow-up visits check the surgical site and device.

• Week 3 to Week 4:

By now, patients are often more comfortable and can return to light activities. The device can start being activated or adjusted to control symptoms. Keeping track of symptom changes is important, as the settings of the device are calibrated over time.

• Month 2 to Month 3:

Patients usually have noticeable improvement in motor function, yet DBS settings will still require adjustments. Repeat visits are still crucial to track progress.

• Six Months to One Year:

By six months, many patients experience significant and lasting symptom relief. Full recovery and adaptation to the DBS device may take up to one year.

What are the potential risks and precautions after DBS surgery? Let’s discuss the safety considerations that you should keep in mind during recovery.

• Avoiding Strenuous Activity:

Avoid heavy lifting and excessive activity for a minimum of six weeks following surgery to safeguard the surgical area and leads.

• Electromagnetic Field Exposure:

DBS patients must keep away from intense electromagnetic fields in high-power equipment, microwaves, and security equipment.

• Device Interference:

Certain electronic devices may interfere with the functioning of the DBS device. Patients should consult their neurosurgeon about the safety of using devices such as cell phones, wireless devices, and other electronics.

• Travel Considerations:

While traveling, particularly by flight, inform security personnel of your DBS device. Metal detectors will detect the device, but it is safe for air travel.

• Regular Follow-ups:

DBS adjustments are necessary from time to time. Visit regular neurosurgeon appointments to maintain proper device function.

Wondering how to adapt to life post-surgery? Let’s dive into some practical tips that will help you adjust smoothly after your DBS procedure.

• Manage Expectations:

DBS effects may not be immediate. Allow several weeks for device settings to be optimized.

• Track Symptoms:

Keep a detailed record of symptom changes after surgery. This helps your neurosurgeon fine-tune your device.

• Follow a Healthy Lifestyle:

Eating a balanced diet and maintaining regular physical activity (as per your doctor’s advice) can enhance the benefits of DBS surgery.

• Be Patient with Adjustments:

The device’s settings will be adjusted over time. Be patient and keep communication open with your medical team to ensure the best possible outcome.

• Mind Mental Health:

It’s normal to experience a mix of emotions during recovery. Don’t hesitate to seek mental health support if needed to cope with the changes.

Have concerns or notice unusual symptoms after surgery? Let’s explore when it’s important to reach out to your neurosurgeon.

• Worsening Symptoms:

If symptoms worsen or don’t improve after initial adjustment phase, contact your doctor to review device settings.

• Device Malfunction:

If the device feels unusual or stops working, call your neurosurgeon for evaluation.

• Severe Side Effects:

If you experience persistent or severe side effects, such as dizziness, pain, or sudden neurological changes, contact your neurosurgeon immediately.

• Infection Signs:

Signs of infection at the surgical site, including redness, swelling, or discharge, require prompt medical attention.

Life after DBS surgery is a new beginning full of hope and relief from the crippling symptoms of neurological diseases. With proper care and adaptation, and continued support from skilled professionals such as Dr. Gurneet Singh Sawhney, you can derive the long-term advantages of this life-altering procedure. Recovery will need effort, but the possibility of regaining control over your life makes DBS surgery a precious alternative for several individuals.

Reference links:

https://www.ohsu.edu/brain-institute/what-expect-after-dbs-surgery

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/deep-brain-stimulation/about/pac-20384562