42
Deep Brain Stimulation and Parkinson’ s
Questions to Ask Your Team: After Surgery and Beyond
Post-op follow-up Q What to expect in terms of pain, soreness, swelling? Q Where are the incisions? How should I care for them? Q Activities to do or not do? Q When can I shower or bathe? Swim? Q Are there staples or stitches to remove? When? Q Can I use shampoo, lotion, perfume or other scents, or deodorant?
Return to work Q When? Any restrictions?
Driving Q Okay? When? Any restrictions?
Other limitations Q Is it okay to drink alcohol? Q Are there restrictions on exercise, such as weightlifting, swimming or other activities? What type and for how long? Q What about travel? What to know about flying, driving or other modes of transport? Tourist sites or other places to avoid? Getting local care, if needed?
Programming
Q Who programs the device? How do they work with my
Parkinson’ s doctor? What’ s their experience with DBS? Q When does programming begin? Q How often are visits for adjustments? Q How long until I’ ll feel“ normal”? Q Can I control the device? How? Q Any option for remote programming, through virtual visits or telemedicine?
Other considerations
Q Any limitations on MRIs, x-rays, or other medical or dental procedures? Q What about future research participation? Q What’ s the best way to keep up with advances in programming?