Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in iran
Preparation
Your doctor will advise you to get medical tests to check that DBS is appropriate and safe for you. These tests will involve imaging tests, such as an MRI of the brain, to determine the location of the electrodes.
DBS procedure
After determining the position of electrodes, a patch of hair is removed, a small incision at the site of a medical procedure is made, and terminals alongside two protecting wires are embedded in the brain tissues.
The pulse-making device is placed in the chest and initiates electrical signals that are received by the terminals in the brain.
Post DBS Surgery
After the DBS procedure, the neurostimulator is turned on. The doctor programs it using an external device. The stimulation is made according to your medical needs and takes 16 to 18 weeks.
The neurostimulator will create electrical impulses throughout the day, or you will be advised to turn it off at night and on again in the morning. You can control the stimulus using a remote.
Popular Countries for DBS and Their Average Prices
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United States: Known for advanced medical technology, DBS surgery in the U.S. can cost between $35,000 and $100,000.
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Germany: Offers high-quality healthcare, with costs ranging from €25,000 to €70,000.
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India: An emerging destination for medical tourism, offering DBS at prices ranging from $15,000 to $30,000.
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Singapore: Known for its medical infrastructure, DBS costs between SGD 50,000 and SGD 120,000.
The cost of deep brain stimulation procedures in iran is notably lower than in many developed countries. Patients from all over the world often find iran the most cost-effective option.
Affordable Cost of Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery in Iran
$15,000 to $25,000 USD depending on:
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Complexity of the case
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Hospital and surgeon’s expertise
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Additional services like travel, accommodation, and post-op care
In fact, deep brain stimulation costs approximately 40% less in iran than in clinics in the United States and Europe.
Frequently ask question about Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in iran
What conditions can be treated with Deep Brain Stimulation?
Deep Brain Stimulation primarily treats movement disorders. The most common conditions treated with DBS include:
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Parkinson’s Disease: Particularly for symptoms that no longer respond adequately to medications.
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Essential Tremor: For significant tremors that interfere with daily activities.
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Dystonia: To reduce unwanted muscle contractions and improve movement and posture.
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: In some cases, as an approved treatment under certain conditions.
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Epilepsy: To reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.
How is the DBS device implanted?
The DBS implantation process involves two main parts:
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Electrode Implantation: Doctors surgically place thin electrodes into specific areas of the brain. Surgeons typically perform this procedure with the patient awake to provide feedback, ensuring accurate placement. The patient may undergo brain mapping during surgery to optimize electrode placement.
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Pulse Generator Implantation: A few weeks after placing the electrodes, surgeons perform a second surgery. They do this surgery under general anesthesia. It involves implanting the pulse generator, which is similar to a pacemaker, under the skin in the chest. The generator is connected to the electrodes via subcutaneous wires.
Is the DBS procedure painful?
During the electrode implantation, patients are usually awake but given local anesthesia to minimize pain at the incision sites. While being awake during brain surgery might sound daunting, the brain itself does not feel pain. For the second part of the surgery, when surgeon implant the pulse generator, patients are under general anesthesia. Therefore, they do not feel pain.
DBS is performed under general anesthesia, involving the implantation of electrodes in specific areas of the brain. The procedure typically takes 4 to 6 hours, and a 3 to 5-night clinical stay is recommended. Patients are advised to stay in Iran for at least 14 days for initial recovery and adjustment. Full recovery and optimization of the device can take 3 to 6 months.
Can DBS cure Parkinson’s Disease?
No, DBS does not cure Parkinson’s Disease but significantly manages its symptoms.
What are the risks or side effects of DBS?
While DBS is generally safe and effective, it carries risks and potential side effects, including:
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Surgical Risks: Like any surgery, there’s a risk of infection, bleeding, or an adverse reaction to anesthesia.
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Hardware-related Complications: These might include issues with the device itself, such as battery failure or lead displacement.
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Neurological Side Effects: Some patients may experience side effects from the stimulation. These include speech or balance difficulties. However, these can often be adjustable by fine-tuning the device settings.