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Brain Stimulators & Side Effects

Deep brain stimulation involves brain surgery and it is used primarily to alleviate symptoms of movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Although deep brain stimulation is considered very safe, certain side effects and complications are possible.

  1. Function

    • During brain stimulation surgery, surgeons implant electrodes to function as brain stimulators. The surgeons also implant a pulse generator in the collarbone area, which delivers high-frequency electrical stimulation to the brain through the electrodes.

    Types

    • Side effects may be related to local or general anesthesia, electrode placement, hardware, brain stimulation or complications from surgery.

    Stimulation Side Effects

    • Side effects related to brain stimulation include facial numbness, limb weakness or stiffness, double vision, dizziness, imbalance, lightheadedness, mood changes and confusion. Often these effects are temporary, or the stimulator can be adjusted.

    Risks

    • Infection is a possible serious side effect, although patients are placed on antibiotics to prevent this. According to the University of Pittsburgh, about 1 in 100 people experience brain hemorrhaging, which can cause stroke, permanent complications or death.

    Hardware Issues

    • Some patients need repeat surgery to fix hardware problems. The stimulation wire or cable can break or erode through the skin. Batteries for the pulse generator also typically need to be replaced within three to five years.

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