Chennai: For the first time in Asia, neurosurgeons at Jaslok hospital Mumbai have successfully implanted the most advanced ‘Deep Brain Stimulation’ system in two patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease and Dystonia. The technology offers significant improvement over previous DBS devices. Earlier the battery life was low and patients had to undergo repeated invasive surgeries for battery changes every 3-4 years. The new Vercise™ System by Boston Scientific has an extended battery life of up to 25 years.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a neurosurgical procedure that involves the implantation of a medical device called a brain pacemaker which sends electrical impulses to specific parts of the brain for the treatment of tremor. Essential tremor can be very debilitating for patients in their day-to-day activities such as writing, eating or holding things.

“Remarkable improvement is already visible in our Parkinson’s disease patient post the Deep Brain Stimulation procedure. The unique technology provides us with new stimulation options we have never had before. We are particularly pleased with the long battery life of the new DBS system offering a new lease of life to many patients by eliminating the necessity of multiple surgeries. The advanced programming interface would reduce the side effects and improve the benefits of stimulation. Infact, we can now use DBS therapy in children as well, which was previously difficult.” said Dr. Paresh Doshi, Director of Neurosurgery and functional neurosurgery at the Jaslok hospital

Quick Facts: Vercise™  DBS System by Boston Scientific

·         Unique rechargeable battery technology has a 25 year battery life to help reduce surgical interventions

·         Superior technology that limits side effects whilst maximizing benefits for patients and clinicians

·         Accurate and precise targeting

·         Small battery size facilitates implants even in children

·         Patient Convenience: The Vercise charging system and remote control are completely cordless and designed to make charging simple

·         Flexibility: The wireless charging system allows patients to be active while charging the device

“I feel much better post the DBS procedure using the new technology. The recharging system is convenient and easy to use. I am glad that this system is expected to minimize the need to undergo regular replacement surgeries and related complications,” said Mr. MM Singh, the only patient who has undergone the surgery using the new technology for Parkinson’s disease in India.

The Vercise System by Boston Scientific is designed to provide comfort, control, and convenience to the clinician’s practice and to patients. It is designed for precise neural targeting to customize therapy to patients.  In addition, the system is designed to offer unique patient benefits including the longest battery life available for DBS therapy and the smallest stimulator footprint.

“We are delighted to have introduced this innovative technology at Jaslok Hospital and look forward to witnessing the benefits that the system offers. It is a significant development in movement disorder therapy for patients as well as doctors. With our team of experienced doctors and state of the art facilities, we hope to make a positive difference in the lives of people by continuing to offer the most advanced therapies. ” said Dr. Tarang Gianchandani, CEO, Jaslok hospital