The movement disorders surgery program at Rush specializes in the treatment of symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor and dystonia using deep brain stimulation (DBS). Deep brain stimulation is a relatively new therapy that, for some patients, has proven to be effective in controlling some of the primary motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s and other movement disorders. The therapy works by electrically stimulating the structures in the brain involved in motor control.

Most movement disorders patients can be appropriately treated with medication by a qualified neurologist. The movement disorders surgery program is geared toward patients whose symptoms cannot be adequately managed through medication or whose medication is causing such significant side effects as to prove a medical management approach ineffective.

Deep brain stimulation for movement disorders is available for carefully selected patients who have undergone thorough evaluation. In most cases, a referral from the treating neurologist is required prior to scheduling an appointment with the program.

The movement disorders surgery program offers a coordinated, multidiscplinary approach with a highly experienced team, including a neurosurgeon, neurologist, nurse/program coordinator, neuropsychologist and speech therapist. Surgeon Roy A. E. Bakay, MD, specializes in the surgical treatment of Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, dystonia and other movement conditions. He has performed more than 200 DBS procedures, more than most other providers in the United States.