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Deep brain stimulation for chronic pain
DBS to manage chronic pain, HCA UK offers deep brain stimulation for chronic pain where medication is no longer effective.
About
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment option that aims to reduce chronic (intractable) pain.
This is an option when the pain cannot be controlled with medication.
Need to know
This procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. The neurosurgeon will start by implanting small electrodes in the brain. The precise position of the electrodes will vary depending on the symptoms and which areas of the brain need targeting.
You will remain awake during the surgery so that the team can monitor your brain function as they place the electrodes. The electrodes will then be connected to a tiny pulse generator which is implanted in the chest or abdomen area. The pulse generator delivers electrical stimulation to the target area of the brain. This alters some of the neural pathways which cause epileptic seizures.
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved.
Your consultant will explain these to you.
When you have recovered from your surgery, the neurostimulator will be activated by your consultant. They will show you how to use the device and tell you when you may need to switch it off.
DBS may work better for some people than others. You may still need to take pain medication to lessen your symptoms. Your consultant will monitor your progress over the following months.
Our DBS for chronic pain locations
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Chiswick Outpatients
Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London
Chelsea Outpatients
280 King's Road SW3 5AW London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.