Hi Libra,

I was diagnosed with PD in 1990, and had DBS in 2007. I feel I have responded well to the DBS because my intent was to decrease my dose of Sinemet and I was able to decrease it by 2/3rds of what I took prior to DBS. If you saw me at by best you would not know I have PD.

Two drawbacks to DBS. You will not be a participant in many research studies. Secondly, there are few studies pointing out long term effects of the therapy. One long term study has shown that over time the metal stmulators have moved or settled a little into the brain. This is important as if it settles a tiny bit it could cause loss of control in the Limbic system (causing damage to your ability to regulate your moods or other parts of the brain.

Young Onset patients who have the procedure earlier rather than later have a more beneficial outcome.

Jim, I have never had my batteries replaced.

Dianna