RESOURCES AND SUPPORT FOR DBS
These resources will help patients avoid problems and get support while receiving DBS Therapy for dystonia.
Activities to Avoid
Loss of coordination is a potential side effect of DBS therapy. Patients should exercise reasonable caution when participating in activities requiring coordination, including those that they were able to perform prior to receiving DBS therapy (eg, swimming).
For the most part, everyday activities shouldn't interfere with or damage the DBS system. Here are some common ones to avoid. See the patient manual for a full list.
AVOID BENDING, TWISTING, STRETCHING
Avoid activities that could place stress on the implanted components of the DBS system. Activities that include sudden, excessive, or repetitive bending, twisting or stretching may cause parts of your system to break or move. Talk with a doctor about what activities are safe.
SECURITY DEVICES AND METAL DETECTORS
Walking through some theft detectors or security gates, like those at airports and department stores, may increase the stimulation or turn off the neurostimulator.
Before walking through a security gate, show the Medtronic Device Identification Card to security and request a hand search. If a security wand is used, ask the security personnel to avoid placing it over the neurostimulator.
If you must pass through a gate, walk through the center at a normal pace, and don't lean on or linger at the gate.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Most household appliances and electronic devices that work properly and are properly grounded, like computers, will not interfere with the deep brain stimulation system.
Being Prepared
- Patients should tell their clinician if they aren't feeling well or if they are having problems with their neurostimulator.
- Learn the name and model number of the neurostimulator
- Make sure family and friends know about the DBS system so they can help in an emergency
Device Checkups
It’s extremely important to attend all of the device checkup appointments.
The clinician will schedule these regular follow-up visits to:
- Ensure that the DBS system is functioning properly
- Adjust the stimulation as needed based on the symptom control
- Check neurostimulator battery status to determine if a device replacement will be needed soon
Calling The Doctor
Please direct all medical, medication, and therapy questions to the doctor’s office. The doctor has access to medical records and history and can best diagnose any change in symptoms.
Ask your doctor how to reach the on-call doctor for any medical concerns that come up after hours or on weekends.
Contacting Medtronic Patient Services
Our patient services department is here to answer the questions about the implanted system. We can provide general educational information about Medtronic devices and answer technical questions about Medtronic devices and therapies.
To reach Patient Services in Australia, call 1800 652 972.
Patient Manual
The patient manual covers the DBS system and treatment. Patients will receive a copy after the implant procedure.
Identification Card
Patients should always carry a card that identifies them as having an implanted device.
The doctor’s office will send Medtronic the information necessary for the patients to receive their patient identification card.
Patients will receive a patient manual when they have the implant procedure. It will provide answers to frequently asked questions, precautions, recommended follow-up care, and other information that can help get back to the normal daily activities. If patients have a Medtronic DBS system and have not received their patient manual, or need a replacement manual, contact Patient Services.