Written By Morgan Friede (Territory Manager @ Abbott) via June 2023 Newsletter
Living with Parkinson's disease can be challenging due to symptoms such as
tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement, impacting one's daily life.
Fortunately, advancements in medical science have led to the development of
effective treatments to manage the condition. One such treatment is Deep Brain
Stimulation (DBS), a proven-effective technique that offers hope and improved
quality of life for Parkinson's patients.
Benefits of DBS:
1. Tremor Reduction: DBS has shown remarkable success in reducing tremors, one of the most distressing symptoms for Parkinson's patients. The electrical stimulation disrupts the tremor circuitry, leading to a significant reduction in tremor intensity and frequency.
2. Improved Motor Function: DBS can help improve motor symptoms such as rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and dyskinesia (involuntary movements). Many patients experience enhanced mobility to perform daily activities.
3. Medication Reduction: DBS often allows for a reduction in medication dosages. This can minimize medication-related side effects while maintaining symptom control.
4. Long-term Symptom Management: Studies have shown patients are still getting benefit 15+ years after implant.
5. Flexibility and Adjustability: DBS settings can be fine-tuned to control symptoms and provide optimal outcomes.
Understanding DBS:
Deep Brain Stimulation involves the use of a small, implantable medical device,
similar to a pacemaker, that delivers electrical impulses to specific regions of the brain. These electrical pulses help regulate abnormal brain activity associated with Parkinson's disease and alleviate the motor symptoms such as tremor,
stiffness, slowness, and dyskinesia.
If you or someone you know want to learn more about DBS from a representative
or patient ambassador, please call 972-955-5907 to get connected.
Abbott’s Advancements to DBS:
Abbott, a global healthcare company, has made significant advancements in the field of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Their commitment to innovation and patient-centric solutions has resulted in several notable contributions to the field. Abbott's DBS advancements include:
1. InfinityTM DBS System: Abbott's InfinityTM DBS system is designed to provide
precise and personalized therapy for patients with Parkinson's disease. The system
features a directional lead with segmented electrodes, allowing clinicians to customize and steer electrical stimulation to specific areas of the brain more effectively. Abbott’s recharge free, upgradeable, and clinically proven long-lasting battery allows for seamless system upgrades and increased independence for the patient. Abbott patient, Jason Warren (Paris, TX), states “I definitely love the fact that I don’t have to worry about charging, I am on the go and active and wouldn’t want to have to think about charging something else in my life.”
2. iOS Programming: Abbott’s iOS platform enables patient-friendly programming. Patients can use their personal phone as their controller or opt to use the iPhone that is provided with the system. This intuitive interface allows patients to adjust their therapy settings within physician-defined limits and optimize symptom control based on their individual needs.
3. Neurosphere Virtual Clinic:Abbott is the ONLY company to offer virtual
programming for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Clinicians can remotely adjust and fine-tune patient's settings, without requiring an in-person visit to the healthcare facility.
Virtual Clinic provides:
Convenience and Accessibility: Distance, mobility, and caregiver limitations are no longer a concern.
Timely Adjustments: Enables a clinician to make on demand therapy changes, based on the patient's symptoms and medication needs. Resulting in optimal therapy effectiveness.
Reduced Costs and Travel: Patients save time and costs associated with traveling to and from the clinic for programming sessions.
Deep Brain Stimulation is a promising treatment option for Parkinson's patients who have not achieved adequate symptom control with medication alone. With its ability to reduce tremors, improve motor function, and provide long-term relief, DBS offers new hope for a better quality of life.
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