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When is a unilateral pallidotomy suggested?
Unilateral (one-sided) pallidotomy may be used if symptoms are markedly worse on one side or the other, or if the risks from bilateral (two-sided) pallidotomy are judged to be too great.
Dyskinesias typically improves by what percentage post-pallidotomy?
Dyskinesias typically improve by 75% or more.
Why is a patient's medication sometimes adjusted after undergoing a pallidotomy?
Medications may be adjusted somewhat to accommodate the changes in symptoms.
What specialist performs the pallidotomy?
Pallidotomy is performed in the hospital by a neurosurgeon, in coordination with the patient's neurologist.
What is a basic difference between the unilateral and bilateral pallidotomy?
For unilateral pallidotomy, a single "burr hole" is made in the top of the skull; bilateral pallidotomy requires two holes.
When is it not advisable for a Parkinson's disease patient to have a pallidotomy?
Patients whose symptoms are well managed by drugs are not recommended for surgery, and significant effort will usually be made to adjust medications to control symptoms before surgery is considered.
How does the pallidotomy procedure mimic the effect of dopamine?
Pallidotomy mimics this action by permanently destroying the GPi cells.
What is key to a successful outcome of a pallidotomy?
The key to successful outcome in pallidotomy is extremely precise placement of the electrode.
What does a pallidotomy do?
In a pallidotomy, the globus pallidus is destroyed by heat, delivered by long thin needles inserted under anesthesia
What additional step is necessary in a bilateral pallidotomy?
If bilateral pallidotomy is being performed, the localizing and lesioning will be repeated on the other side.
How effective is pallidotomy in helping tremors?
Studies show the surgery generally improves tremor, rigidity, and slowed movements by 25-60%. Dyskinesias typically improve by 75% or more.
Do symptoms of fibromyalgia improve with age?
They don't necessarily improve, however over time you may get used to certain symptoms and therefor they may seem to improve.
