Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
Dr Julian Rodrigues is a leading advocate of deep brain stimulation (DBS), the surgical technique used to treat movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. After completing extensive training in Western Australia, he attended leading centres in Sydney, Brisbane, and Germany. He has conducted extensive research into DBS and is a member of the Australian DBS Guidelines Working Group. Dr Rodrigues has been providing DBS treatment for patients in WA since 2004.
DBS involves the placement of a small electrode in the brain. It has provided remarkable therapeutic benefits for otherwise treatment-resistant movement and affective disorders.
Treatment Hub
Channel 9 News
9 News has been given a rare exclusive look at a new streamlined surgical procedure used to treat Parkinson’s disease at Perth’s Hollywood Private Hospital.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Parkinson’s Disease: Barry’s story
Barry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease eight years ago. After years of medications, he decided to try deep brain stimulation with Dr Rodrigues.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Essential Tremor: Clinton’s story
After years of managing his essential tremor and with worsening symptoms, Clinton decided to try deep brain stimulation (DBS) with Dr Rodrigues.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological movement disorder that has both motor (movement) and non-motor symptoms. Classically, the primary symptom of Parkinson’s disease is shaking although other motor symptoms, including rigidity and slow movement, are common. Treatment for Parkinson’s disease involve making lifestyle changes and regular medication. For some patients, deep brain stimulation can be an option.
Click here to learn more about Parkinson’s disease.
Essential Tremor
Essential tremor is the most common movement disorder and usually involves shaking of the hands when certain postures are adopted. The exact cause of essential tremor is not yet fully understood. It can be treated using medication, and in some cases deep brain stimulation may offer effective symptom control.
Click here to learn more about essential tremor.
Treatments
Botulinum toxin
Botulinum toxin is a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum and can be used as an effective treatment for a number of conditions. In particular, botulinum toxin can be used to relieve symptoms in the treatment of migraine, blepharospasm, cervical dystonia and hemifacial spasm.
Click here to learn more about the uses of botulinum toxin.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
DBS involves placing small electrodes into specific areas of the brain to alleviate motor symptoms. Dr Julian Rodrigues has extensive experience in using DBS to treat patients with movement disorders.
Click here to learn more about DBS.