Surgical Options:

 In addition to pills, surgical treatments are now more frequently used to help control a variety of types of movement disorders.

1) By cutting the nerves to a moving muscle or group of muscles ( Peripheral Denervation), the  contractions may be reduced. Another surgical option is to cut or remove the muscles (Myectomy). These procedures are primarily used for focal forms of Dystonia.

2) Functional Steriotactic lesioning is a procedure that surgically destroys a very small area deep within the  brain where dystonia may originate from, or be transmitted through.   This, if successful, will stop or reduce the dystonia on the opposite side of the body. This type of procedure tends to help distal (forearm, hand, or foot)  dystonia the most. The two regions that have been lesioned with some success in dystonia include the thalamus, and the globus pallidus. There are, as with any surgical procedure, possible side effects that need to be discussed  and considered. This procedure is an option for treating Parkinson's Disease, Essential Tremor, and Dystonia.

3) Another option is to implant adeep brain stimulator (a small electrode implanted into thalamus that is connected to a programmable transmitter under the chest wall, like a pacemaker).  By electrically interfering with  the natural firing pattern of the nerve cells in this area the tremor is electrically suppressed. This, if successful, will stop the tremor on the opposite side of the body.   There are, as with any surgery, possible side effects that need  to be discussed and considered. This procedure is an option for treating Parkinson's Disease and, Essential Tremor.

4) Another surgical option is to implant a pump that is able to continuously infuse baclofen (Intrathecal Baclofen Pump ) into the fluid around the brain (cerebro-spinal-fluid). This is an experimental technique for the treatment of generalized or severe dystonia refractory to other treatment options. Information so far suggests the main role is in cases combined with. Pumps are also being used experimentally to infuse medications for parkinson's Disease.

 Surgical procedures directed to controlling other movement disorders by operating on, transplanting, or stimulating other areas of the brain are continuing to produce exciting results.

Surgical information Links