What particular techniques are used during your surgery is a question for your surgeon. In general, deep brain stimulation surgery involves placing a thin metal electrode into one of several brain targets and attaching that electrode to a computerized pulse generator which is implanted under the skin. The surgery is designed to alter the abnormal function of the brain tissue. Deep brain stimulation is sometimes described as a pacemaker for the brain, and the purpose is to help treat a number of conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and other brain conditions.
Deep brain stimulation can be risky and complex, and typically requires regular follow ups. Brain mapping is a form of IONM (intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring) that records brain cell activity during the surgery to help the surgeon find the intended brain target. In brain mapping, the brain’s signals are played over a speaker so that the surgical team can listen for patterns of neural activity that can help show the location of the recording electrode.
Your surgeon can inform you whether you need this surgery, and the safest techniques to use during the surgery. In most cases, brain mapping and other types of IONM can greatly help the procedure’s chance of success. However, as with any medical procedure, it can go wrong, which result in complications, which can sometimes be serious.
If you believe that your surgery involving intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring was not successful because of the doctor or technician’s negligence, you should speak with an attorney. I can help. Call me, Conal Doyle, Southern California IONM negligence attorney at 310-385-0567. My team can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.