Surgery for Parkinson's

Although the main treatment for Parkinson's is medication, there are some types of surgery available to treat the symptoms of the condition.

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

It may also be used for people who experience problems with involuntary movements (dyskinesia).

May give better control of symptoms

Surgery for Parkinson's can give some people better control of their symptoms, but it is not a cure, so the condition will continue to progress. Most people will still need to take medication.

Not everyone will be suitable for surgery, so you may want to discuss this option with your specialist or Parkinson's nurse.

You may then be referred to a consultant neurologist or surgeon at a hospital that performs surgery for Parkinson's. If there is a possibility you are suitable for surgery, you will then be fully assessed.

For more information, see our Surgery for Parkinson's booklet or look at the pages below.

The main types of surgery for Parkinson's

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

• Deep brain stimulation
• Lesioning surgery
• Other surgical treatments for Parkinson's

Finding out more

If you're looking into whether surgery is right for you, it's important you fully understand the procedure involved, the possible benefits and potential risks.

Write down any questions you have and take these along to discuss with your specialist, Parkinson's nurse or surgeon.

Like any operation, each form of surgery for Parkinson's carries its own risks.

Any outcomes of surgery, whether good or bad, will have an effect on the quality of life of someone with Parkinson's and those around them.

In this section

• Treating Parkinson's
• Drug treatments for Parkinson's
• Therapies and Parkinson's management
• Surgery for Parkinson's
• Future treatments for Parkinson's

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