Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute says it is the first in the state to implant a new type of deep brain stimulation (DBS) device that offers more personalized treatment for patients with Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor.
Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at JFK University Medical Center implanted the state’s first Vercise™ Cartesia™ X Directional Leads this month. The device with 16 contact directional leads allows for precise care for patients diagnosed with complex essential tremor or parkinsonian tremor not adequately controlled by medications and where the tremor constitutes a significant functional disability.
“We are proud to offer this new innovation in DBS surgery to our patients,” said Vanessa C. Milano, M.D., the performing neurosurgeon at JFK University Medical Center. “For many patients with complex Parkinson’s disease or essential tremor this device will offer greater customization and allow more precise targeting of the sources of the tremors while avoiding side effects.”
Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at Jersey Shore University Medical Center also implanted its first Vercise Cartesia X Directional leads this month.
“This 16 contact directional lead, allows us to treat even more patients with deep brain stimulation,” said Shabbar Danish, M.D., chair of Neurosurgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. “Many patients have complex tremors that need a multipronged target in the brain. We are thrilled to be able to offer this option to better serve these patients.”
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is like a pacemaker for the brain. It uses implanted electrodes, called leads, to send electrical signals to specific areas deep within the brain. These signals interrupt abnormal brain activity that causes symptoms in neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia.
“Through the contacts on the leads, we can adjust the strength, size, and frequency of the electrical signals to fine-tune the therapy for each individual,” said Dana Dolce, AGACNP, BC, neuromodulation program manager for Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute. “This precision to refine the size, shape, and location of the stimulation allows us to best control the patient’s symptoms like tremor, slowness, and rigidity while avoiding unwanted side effects.”
