You will then be asked to raise your arm, count to 10, say your name, or perform a variety of similar maneuvers. The electrode will be stimulated and the neurosurgeon will observe changes in your tremor or in your responses. A test lesion will be made and then, if no problems arise, a permanent lesion will be placed as previously outlined. It is not uncommon to place several such lesions in a single operation to most effectively treat your symptoms. Once this is done, the electrode and the circular ring apparatus are removed from the head and the incision is closed with switches and bandaged.
Most patients spend the night following surgery in the hospital.
Generally, patients will be up and walking the next day and will be discharged from the hospital after one to three days. Patients should refrain from strenuous work or exercise for two to three weeks. The stitches will be taken out about seven to ten days after surgery when you visit your doctor for follow-up. The success rates and the degrees of symptom relief depend upon the exact type of movement disorder and the specific procedure. Your doctor will review with you in detail what the estimates are for you.