New Delhi, India
Dr Satish Kumar Verma, Additional Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, has outlined key medical guidelines and cost considerations related to advanced treatment options for Parkinson’s disease, particularly focusing on Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS).
Speaking in Delhi, Dr Verma emphasized that DBS, a surgical treatment used to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, should be considered only after a thorough and prolonged clinical evaluation. “Parkinson’s disease should usually be confirmed for at least five years by a neurologist through detailed examination, with the patient on medication during that time,” he said.
He cautioned against opting for early surgical intervention in many cases, noting that certain related neurological conditions may emerge over time. “Early surgery is sometimes done, but various syndromes such as Parkinson’s-plus often appear after five years, and in those cases, DBS is not effective,” he explained.
Based on these clinical observations, Dr Verma advised a cautious and evidence-based approach. “Therefore, it is advisable to wait at least five years before considering DBS,” he added, underscoring the importance of accurate diagnosis before proceeding with surgery.
In addition to clinical guidance, Dr Verma also highlighted the cost advantages of undergoing DBS treatment at AIIMS compared to private healthcare institutions. “DBS at AIIMS is very cost-effective. At AIIMS, patients pay only for the leads and electrodes, and even that cost is minimal,” he said.
He contrasted this with the significantly higher expenses in private hospitals. “In private centres, the expense is much higher, often ₹35–40 lakhs. At AIIMS, the cost ranges from ₹9–20 lakhs,” he noted, pointing to the accessibility of advanced treatment at government-run institutions.
Deep Brain Stimulation is a well-established procedure that involves implanting electrodes in specific areas of the brain to regulate abnormal impulses, helping improve motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement in Parkinson’s patients.
Medical experts note that while DBS can significantly improve quality of life for eligible patients, careful patient selection and timing of the surgery are critical to achieving optimal outcomes.
Dr Verma’s remarks highlight both the medical caution required in treating Parkinson’s disease and the role of public healthcare institutions like AIIMS in making advanced neurological treatments more affordable and accessible.
