Question: Anything special I should be aware before going into the operation? Rev. 03/03
Answer: YES!!!
1. Bi-lateral STN takes between 5 and 6 hours and you will be AWAKE most of the time. Be aware that each surgical team has its own protocol and the timing and specific steps may vary.
During much of the procedure you need to be awake because your responses are needed to rule out inappropriate and harmful locations for the placement of the four electrodes. You will feel no pain and can converse with the team. Only at the end when the doctors thread the leads and plant the stimulators will you be asleep.
2. I consider this a "no vanity" operation because you will look like hell afterwards. A large bandage is wrapped around your head in turban-like fashion and after it is taken off you are bald. But, within 2 weeks your staples will be removed, the bandage is long gone and you will be ready to begin your adjustment period, i.e., you will be ?turned on? and proper settings of the stimulator will be established.
3. Most patients experience some weight gain because they no longer have extended periods of dyskinesia which tends to burn up many calories. This gain can be anywhere from 10 to 40 lbs.
List entire FAQ
