DBS battery replacement: my guide for patients

Introduction

The battery for your deep brain stimulation (DBS) system sits in a small pocket under the skin, usually below the collarbone. When it runs down, it needs to be replaced. Only the battery is replaced. The leads in your brain are not touched.

What to expect from surgery

• Surgery is performed at Synergy Surgery Center, which is across the street from HCA HealthONE Swedish.
• The surgery takes roughly 15 minutes.
• It is done under sedation and local anesthetic. You do not need general anesthesia.
• I will implant the type of battery that you and your neurologist have agreed on. I can provide input as needed.
• The settings from your old device will be imported into the new implant, so you should not notice a difference in your therapy.
• A company representative will be present to teach you about your new device and patient programmer.
• I close the incision with dissolvable sutures and skin glue.
• These surgeries are always outpatient, meaning you go home the same day.
• You can expect to spend a few hours with us between the preoperative process, the surgery, and your recovery.

Instructions before surgery

• The anesthesia team will give you specific instructions about eating and drinking before surgery.
• Please hold your blood thinners before surgery, as we discussed in our office visit.
• Please plan to have someone drive you home.
• Please call my office with any questions.

After surgery

• You will not need any new prescriptions.
• You can shower normally the next day. Please wait 2 to 3 weeks before swimming or taking a bath.
• Most patients have only minor incisional discomfort that rarely requires anything more than Tylenol and Motrin. I do not prescribe opioids for this procedure.
• Please ask me when you can resume your blood thinners.
• Please avoid heavy lifting, straining, and other vigorous activity for a few days, and then return to normal activity gradually.
• A little bit of swelling or puffiness, and a feeling of fluid in the pocket, are normal for the first few weeks after surgery.

When to call my office

Please notify my office if you develop any of the following:

• Severe pressure or tension in the pocket.
• Drainage from the incision.
• Any perceived issue or interruption with your DBS therapy.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911.

For questions or concerns that are not a medical emergency, you can reach my medical assistant directly at (720) 599-3075 or MDMian@carepointhc.com. You can also call the CarePoint Neurosurgery main line at (303) 515-2320.

If you or a family member is considering DBS and has not yet met with me, please consider meeting me in consultation to learn more about your treatment options.