Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective option for treating advanced motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease and is widely used in Europe and Asia. It is estimated that more than 160,000 patients worldwide have had a DBS device implanted, with most of them in the United States, Europe, and Japan.
In Europe alone, more than 12,000 DBS battery replacement procedures are performed. Japan and South Korea have one of the highest utilization rates in Asia, with over 3,000 procedures per year. Since the DBS battery typically lasts between 3-5 years (non-rechargeable), thousands of patients require battery replacement each year, and statistics show that about 20-30% of DBS patients undergo a battery replacement procedure within the first five years of implantation, making this procedure an essential part of the treatment plan.
What is a DBS brain battery, and why is it being changed
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a medical procedure that involves implanting a small device that releases a mild electrical current to specific areas of the brain, which improves the function of these areas. This treatment is commonly used in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy, and deep brain stimulation has also been used in some cases of severe depression, where clinical studies have shown improvement in symptoms in patients who did not respond to conventional medications, and research is currently being conducted into the possibility of using it to treat other conditions.
The DBS system consists of electrodes implanted in the brain, wires that pass under the skin, and a pulse generator device that is usually implanted under the clavicle, This pacemaker-like device sends electrical impulses to the electrodes to stimulate specific areas of the brain. Since the device relies on a battery to generate pulses, this battery has a limited lifespan. When the battery is close to running out, the patient needs a surgical procedure to replace it to ensure that the treatment continues effectively.
How is battery life assessed before replacement?
The battery life of the DBS device is assessed periodically using an external programming device that shows the charge level and status of the device, some devices send an early warning when the battery is close to running out and requiring DBS battery replacement, the assessment is usually done every 6 to 12 months during follow-up visits. The doctor can monitor changes in voltage or an increase in power consumption as indicators of declining battery life, and in some cases, the patient may notice a gradual return of symptoms, which is what prompts doctors to review the device’s performance.
Steps to perform DBS battery replacement
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a relatively minor surgical procedure that, in most cases, is performed under local anesthesia, and the patient may not be required to stay in the hospital for more than 24 hours:
Assessment and preparation
Before the DBS battery replacement is performed, the condition of the battery is assessed using an external programmer to check the charge level and performance of the device, where the patient is asked to stop certain medications temporarily, and the medical team performs blood tests and takes radiographs to make sure the patient is fully prepared.
Performing the procedure
A small incision is made in the skin in the same area as the previous implant, usually under the collarbone where the battery is located. The old battery is carefully removed, and the new one is connected to the same existing wires without having to touch the implanted electrodes in the brain.
Adjusting device settings after switching
After the implant is complete, the new battery is activated using the programming device and adjusting the voltage and frequency depending on the patient’s response. In some cases, the device is not activated immediately, but the patient waits a day or more to ensure the condition is stabilized.
Monitoring and recovery
The medical team monitors the patient for any signs of infection or complications at the surgical site, and the patient is advised to avoid strenuous activities for several days while keeping the area clean and dry.
Can complications occur during or after DBS battery replacement?
Although DBS battery replacement is relatively safe and less complicated than the initial implant, some complications may occur during or after DBS battery replacement, and their consequences and possibilities vary according to the patient’s condition and the experience of the medical team. The most prominent of these complications:
- Localized infection and bleeding: A superficial infection at the surgical site or minor bleeding around the battery site is a relatively common complication but can be easily treated.
- Skin abrasion or misconnection: In some cases, skin erosion or compression of the skin over the battery site may occur, especially in thin patients, and faulty wiring can occur if the new battery is not installed accurately.
- Neurological or technical complications: Some patients may experience temporary neurological symptoms after the switch, such as impaired motor control or mood changes, especially if the device settings are not precisely adjusted after implantation.
The surgical complication rate is low; studies show that the complication rate does not exceed 5% in most advanced centers. DBS battery replacement, compared to the original implant, is considered to have a significantly lower risk, as it eliminates the need to handle the electrodes inside the brain.
When does a patient need a DBS battery replacement?
The deep brain stimulation (DBS) battery is a key factor in the treatment and relief of Parkinson’s symptoms, and the timing of its replacement depends on several factors, including the type of battery, the device settings, and the patient’s response to treatment, the following are the main indicators that indicate the need to DBS battery replacement:
- End of life of the battery: There are two types of batteries, including non-rechargeable batteries that usually last from 3 to 5 years and depend on the device settings such as voltage and frequency, while the other type is rechargeable batteries that may last up to 15 years or more but require periodic charging by the patient.
- Technical indications that the battery is about to run out: The programming device shows notifications such as “Battery Depleted” or “End of Service,” indicating low power and the need for an imminent replacement.
- Return of symptoms or poor response to treatment: A Parkinson’s patient may notice a gradual return of neurological symptoms such as tremor or stiffness, indicating that the stimulation is no longer effective due to low battery power.
- Periodic evaluation of the device’s effectiveness: Periodic checks are recommended every 6 to 12 months to evaluate the device’s performance and remaining battery life, which helps in determining the proper and accurate timing for replacement before any sudden battery failure occurs.
Benefits of continuing treatment after battery replacement
DBS battery replacement is one of the most important steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of treatment in Parkinson’s disease, and not to interrupt the electrical stimulation that plays a key role in controlling motor symptoms and improving quality of life. And we mention the most important benefits of continuing treatment after DBS battery replacement:
- Staying in control of motor symptoms: DBS reduces symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and bradykinesia, allowing the patient to maintain a good level of independence and perform daily functions normally.
- Avoid a sudden deterioration in symptoms: If DBS battery replacement is not performed in time, the effectiveness of the device may cease completely, leading to a severe relapse and rapid return of symptoms, which can be avoided by regular continuation of treatment after the replacement.
- Stabilize medication doses: One of the most important benefits of DBS is that it allows doses of dopamine medications to be reduced, thus minimizing their side effects, as stopping the stimulation may force the doctor to raise the doses again.
- Improved long-term quality of life: Patients who maintain continuity of electrical stimulation through timely battery replacement often show better outcomes in terms of motor and psychosocial functioning.
- Easy to adjust the device after switching: After DBS battery replacement, the stimulation settings can be easily adjusted as needed, ensuring that the treatment remains effective without the need for additional surgical intervention.
After DBS battery replacement: Guidelines and recovery
After DBS battery replacement, recovery requires constant medical monitoring and careful instructions to ensure that the wound heals and the device returns to full functioning without complications. Post-operative recommendations vary depending on the case and the type of battery used, but generally speaking, these recommendations are basic:
- Immediate post-operative monitoring: The patient is monitored for several hours in the hospital or is only booked for a day to monitor vital signs and make sure there is no bleeding or infection at the implant site.
- Wound care and infection prevention: Keep the surgical site dry and clean, and change bandages according to the doctor’s instructions, as the patient is advised not to expose the wound to water or touch the area directly until complete healing.
- Rest and avoid excessive physical activity: The patient is recommended to rest for several days and avoid lifting or vigorous exercise for at least a week until the implant site is fully healed.
- Continue adjusting the device after the switch: The new battery is programmed, and the settings are adjusted according to the patient’s response. In some cases, the stimulation is reactivated a day or more after the procedure to accurately assess the results.
- Return to daily activities gradually: Depending on the severity of the overall symptoms and the speed of recovery, the patient can gradually return to daily life within days to two weeks.
The difference between a rechargeable anda non-rechargeable battery
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) batteries come in two main types: rechargeable and non-rechargeable, and each type has advantages and limitations that affect a Parkinson’s patient’s treatment plan.
Non-rechargeable batteries are implanted and used until they run out of power, usually lasting 3 to 5 years, depending on the device settings and consumption rate, at the end of which they need to be surgically replaced. These batteries are often preferred for older patients or those who find it difficult to commit to regular charging tasks.
Rechargeable batteries provide us with a longer lifespan of 10 to 15 years or more. Still, they need to be charged periodically, usually once every one to two weeks, and their use requires the cooperation of the patient and their ability to follow them closely, despite their higher cost. Still, they reduce the number of surgeries in the long run.
The choice between the two types depends on several factors such as the patient’s age, health condition, severity of Parkinson’s symptoms, ability to adhere to instructions, and expected total cost.
DBS battery replacement cost in Turkey and neighboring countries
Turkey is an excellent destination for DBS battery replacement surgeries because it provides high-quality medical services at an affordable cost compared to other countries. The cost of DBS battery replacement surgery in Turkey ranges from 15,000 to 28,000 USD, depending on the type of battery (rechargeable or non-rechargeable) and the hospital chosen.
In comparison, costs in neighboring countries such as Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon may be lower, but keep in mind that these prices may not include some additional services such as medical follow-up or accommodation, and the quality of healthcare and the technologies used may vary.
With advanced medical centers in cities like Istanbul and Ankara, Turkey offers comprehensive packages that include tests, surgery, accommodation, and follow-up, making it a preferred choice for many patients looking for a balance between quality and cost.
DBS battery replacement is a necessary procedure to ensure the continued effectiveness of Parkinson’s disease treatment. By understanding when and why DBS battery replacement is performed, as well as the procedure’s steps and potential complications, patients can make informed decisions in collaboration with their medical team. Choosing the appropriate type of stem cell and regular post-surgery follow-up significantly contribute to maintaining quality of life. Turkey remains a good treatment option for patients in the region due to its balance of cost and advanced care.
Sources:
- Boston Scientific. (n.d.). Replace your DBS battery. Retrieved May 30, 2025
- Qiu, X., Peng, T., Lin, Z., Zhu, K., Wang, Y., Sun, B., Ashkan, K., Zhang, C., & Li, D. (2021). Fixed-life or rechargeable battery for deep brain stimulation: Preference and satisfaction in Chinese patients with Parkinson’s disease. Retrieved May 30, 2025
