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FAQs Regarding Deep Brain Stimulation
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Barrow Neurological Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

REFERENCES
1. Medtronic ACTIVA Parkinson's Control Therapy literature; Information about deep brain stimulation; 2004
2. Krack, Paul, M.D. et al; Five Year Follow-up of Bilateral Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus in Advanced Parkinson's Disease; New England Journal of Medicine; Vol 349, No. 20, pp. 1925-1934.

  1. Can I use everyday household appliances?
  2. Can I drive an automobile while the neurostimulator is ON?
  3. Can I fly?
  4. What about airport security checkpoints?
  5. Can I go in hot tubs or use tanning beds?
  6. Can I be near electric substations or power lines?
  7. Can I arc weld?
  8. Can I work on an automobile?
  9. Can I be around industrial equipment?
  10. Can I use power tools?
  1. Can I use everyday household appliances?
    • Most electrical appliances will not harm the device, but permanent magnets such as those found in stereo speakers, radios, and telephones, and refrigerator magnets could turn the neurostimulator ON or OFF if brought within inches of the neurostimulator.
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  2. Can I drive an automobile while the neurostimulator is ON?
    • Whether you can drive depends on your symptoms and how well you respond to deep brain stimulation therapy.  Talk with your health care team and your family.
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  3. Can I fly?
    • Yes.
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  4. What about airport security checkpoints?
    • Avoid airport security checkpoints and theft detectors in department stores, libraries, and pharmacies.  Show your neurostimulator ID card and ask for a hand search to bypass the security gate.
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  5. Can I go in hot tubs or use tanning beds?
    • No.
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  6. Can I be near electric substations or power lines?
    • Yes.
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  7. Can I arc weld?
    • No.
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  8. Can I work on an automobile?
    • Yes, but you may experience discomfort with excessive bending or twisting.
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  9. Can I be around industrial equipment?
    • Yes, but be aware that your system may turn on or off. You will have to check that it  is on when you are done.
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  10. Can I use power tools?
    • Yes, but keep them away from your neurostimulator and make sure it is functioning properly after you have finished.
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