40
Deep Brain Stimulation and Parkinson’ s cause dyskinesia or other side effects. If this happens, your programmer will simply turn down the settings.
+ Infection The risk of infection is low, but it can happen, especially with repeated battery changes over time. Your doctors limit risk with careful protocols in the operating room. You can limit risk by keeping your incision clean and dry. If the skin becomes red, painful, swollen or warm; the incision oozes; or you have a fever, contact your doctor immediately. Infection is typically treated with intravenous( IV) antibiotics and rarely with removal of the battery.
+ Bleeding Bleeding around the battery is possible, particularly if you have bleeding problems or take blood thinners.( Usually these medications are held temporarily ahead of battery replacement.) If you notice swelling or significant bruising or bleeding from the incision, contact your doctor right away. Most of the time, bleeding slows with pressure bandages or other treatment. If not, you may need additional care.
After battery replacement, pay close attention to how you feel. Pain is common and expected. But if you have new weakness or numbness, or changes in talking or walking, you should seek medical attention right away. If you have considerable worsening of Parkinson’ s symptoms, talk with your DBS doctors immediately. Symptoms can increase with any surgery, pain medication or other stressors. But they should improve in a few days to weeks. If not, ask whether you might have a complication and how you and your doctor can look for and fix it. Remember, you know yourself or your loved one best and you are your best advocate.