21
Before Surgery
DBS device Q Which devices are currently available? Pros and cons of each?
Q Which do you recommend? Why?
Q What is neurosurgeon and programmer experience with each?
Brain wire, or electrode or lead, placement
Q Wires in both sides of the brain or one?
Q In the same or separate procedures? If separate, how much time between?
Q Where will the wires go? Why did you pick that spot? Will you use staples or sutures?
Q How many scars will I have?
Battery
Type
Q One or two batteries? Why? How big? What will I notice?
Q Rechargeable or non-rechargeable? Pros and cons of each?
Placement
Q In chest, abdomen or elsewhere? Why?
Q Right, left or both sides? Why?
Life
Q How often does the battery need to be replaced?
Q What does replacement entail? Risks?
Rechargeable
Q Do you recommend a rechargeable battery for me? Why or why not?
Q How does rechargeable charge? Equipment required?
Q How often does battery need to be charged and how long does it take?
Q How to know when battery needs charging?