Product Support DBS therapy for Dystonia

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT FOR DBS

These resources will help you 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 your DBS system. Here are some common ones to avoid.  See your patient manual for a full list.

BENDING, TWISTING, STRETCHING

Avoid activities that could place stress on the implanted components of your 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 your doctor about what activities are safe for you.

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 your neurostimulator.

Before walking through a security gate, show your 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 your 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 your deep brain stimulation system.

Being Prepared

• Tell your clinician if you don’t feel well or if you are having problems with your neurostimulator(s)
• Learn the name and model number of your neurostimulator
• Make sure your family and friends know about your DBS system so they can help in an emergency

Device Checkups

It’s extremely important to attend all of your device checkup appointments.

Your clinician will schedule these regular follow-up visits to:

• Ensure that your DBS system is functioning properly
• Adjust your stimulation as needed based on your symptom control
• Check neurostimulator battery status to determine if you will soon need a device replacement

Calling Your Doctor

Please direct all medical, medication, and therapy questions to your doctor’s office. Your doctor has access to your 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 your questions about your implanted system or treatment. We can provide general educational information about Medtronic devices and answer technical questions about Medtronic devices and therapies.

To reach Patient Services, call 800-510-6735.

Patient Manual

The patient manual covers your DBS system and treatment. You will receive a copy after your implant procedure.

Identification Card

Always carry a card that identifies you as having an implanted device.

Your doctor’s office will send Medtronic the information necessary for you to receive your patient identification card. This information is also used to track your implanted device, which is an FDA requirement. If your address, phone, or physician changes, you are responsible for updating your information on file.

Update your records and get a new card.

You will receive a patient manual when you have the implant procedure. It will provide answers to frequently asked questions, precautions, recommended follow-up care, and other information that can help you get back to your normal daily activities. If you have a Medtronic DBS system and have not received your patient manual, or need a replacement manual, contact Patient Services.