Updated on Jul. 24, 2024
Rosa was taking her medication, but her symptoms were still worsening over time. Her neurologist referred her to neurosurgeon Devin K. Binder, M.D., medical director, MemorialCare Neuroscience Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center. The Movement Disorders Program provides comprehensive care for Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, featuring advanced diagnostics, clinical trials, patient support, and minimally invasive treatments.
With just one appointment with Dr. Binder, during which he told Rosa about an FDA-approved and recently upgraded device that could help control her Parkinson’s symptoms with a bilateral deep-brain stimulation (DBS) procedure, she realized her life would be forever changed.
DBS is a treatment in which a surgically implanted device sends electrical pulses to specific parts of the brain. This helps reduce tremors and block involuntary movements in patients with movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, by calming the overactive areas of the brain.
Improvements to the deep brain stimulation device are game changers for DBS patients, its small size, battery performance, durability and connectivity improvements have opened amazing possibilities for people suffering from movement disorders.
Dr. Binder
Dr. Binder performed Rosa’s life-changing DBS treatment on March 17, 2024— marking the first procedure with the improved deep brain stimulation device in the Southern California region.
We could see the benefits of this upgraded device during the procedure, Rosa only has a minuscule scar on her chest — which is important for younger patients. In addition, this device won’t need to be charged monthly.
Dr. Binder
Upon completion of Rosa’s procedure, Dr. Binder’s team began programming the device. This process can take several weeks to months, but once complete the patient can control the device themselves with a handheld remote.
“The thought of a brain procedure can be intimidating,” says Rosa. “But I completely trusted Dr. Binder and his team throughout the whole process.”
Within a month, Rosa was able to wean off her medications as her device was appropriately adjusted.
“This procedure has given me a second chance at life,” Rosa says. “I can cut fruits and vegetables again and cook on my own. I’m able to sit and stand without assistance. I started driving again and I just participated in my first Zumba class. I would 100% recommend this procedure.”
The success of Rosa’s procedure highlights the transformative potential of advanced deep brain stimulation technology. This innovative treatment option is providing a new sense of hope for many people who previously had limited options for managing their symptoms.
Dr. Binder and the team at Orange Coast Medical Center are dedicated to continuing to offer cutting-edge treatment options and supporting patients with movement disorders, helping them take back control of their lives.
