Macrostimulation

Once the final target is identified, we permanently implant the deep brain electrode. The placement of the electrode - even without electric current passing through it - frequently can give a temporary clinical effect. For patients with Parkinson's disease, we sometimes see dyskinesias, a predictor of a good outcome.

By passing electrical current through the DBS, we check for proper placement. Current spreads a greater distance with macrostimulation than with microstimulation. You will receive an x-ray while in the operating room before and after fixing the electrode to the skull to ensure that the electrode does not change its depth.