NIMS Neurosurgeons use deep brain stimulation to treat 23-year-old with Dystonia

The young patient, born deaf and mute due to a rare genetic mutation, suffered from severe involuntary movements and feeding difficulties. Painful twisting movements of his neck and body made swallowing and feeding challenging, leaving him dependent on his parents for daily activities.

Hyderabad: In a highly advanced and cutting-edge procedure, neurosurgeons at Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) employed Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy to provide treatment to a 23-year-old male patient suffering from Dystonia, a neuro-disorder where patients have abnormal and painful twisting movements of the hands, legs, neck or at times entire body.

The young patient, who was deaf and mute from birth due to a rare genetic mutation, presented with severe involuntary movements and feeding difficulties. He experienced swallowing and feeding difficulty due to painful twisting movements of neck and body making him dependent on his parents for his day to day activities.

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After the surgery, the patient had a dramatic improvement in dystonia and was relieved of neck pain which once dominated his life.

The DBS is an advanced neurosurgical procedure that has revolutionized the treatment of several neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and certain psychiatric conditions like OCD.

Dr. Sireesha Yareeda, senior neurologist specializing in movement disorders at NIMS, said “DBS surgery is highly effective in treating dystonia, tremors and Parkinson’s disease”.”

Dr. Yerramaneni Vamsi Krishna, senior neurosurgeon, NIMS, said “Many patients hesitate to seek surgical opinions due to perceived risks. DBS is distinct from traditional brain surgeries and is a relatively safe procedure”. Dr. N. Beerappa Nagari, Director, NIMS, said the highly expensive DBS procedure is available for free of cost under Aarogyasri health insurance scheme.