Pros for this therapy

• Improves quality of life for medication resistant Parkinson's disease
• Decreases side effects of Parkinson's medications
• Can allow for a reduction in medication regimen
• Effects are reversible
• Allows for non-permanent denervation in dystonia patients

Cons for this therapy

DBS carries risks associated with any type of brain surgery. For example, the procedure may lead to:

• Bleeding in the brain or stroke
• Infection
• Disorientation or confusion
• Unwanted mood changes
• Movement disorders
• Lightheadedness
• Trouble sleeping

Because the procedure is still experimental, other side effects that are not yet identified may be possible. Long-term benefits and side effects are unknown.