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Surgical treatment of Parkinson's

Surgery is generally only used to treat people who have had Parkinson's for some time and whose symptoms are not controlled effectively by medication.

Surgery can be successful but it does not work for everyone, and for some it may just not be suitable.

Karen O'Sullivan, specialist Parkinson's nurse

It may also be used for people who are experiencing very troublesome dyskinesias (involuntary movements).

The risks of surgery may be increased in very elderly people and those with other conditions that might cause complications.

Most surgeons will not operate on anyone who is experiencing confusion or psychosis, has experienced a stroke or has dementia or severe depression.

For more information, see our Surgery and Parkinson's booklet or browse the pages below.

The main forms of surgery for Parkinson's

The main forms of surgery available for the treatment of Parkinson's are:

The risks of surgery

Each form of surgery for Parkinson's carries its own risks. These vary for each individual and should be discussed with your consultant.

The aftercare and possible complications involved in surgical treatments can also have a long-term impact on the daily life of people with Parkinson's and their carers.

In this section

People share their surgery stories

In our Real life stories - Parkinson's surgery section People with Parkinson's share their  experiences of deep brain stimulation and other forms of surgery used to treat some of the symptoms of Parkinson's