Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute First In New Jersey To Implant Deep Brain Stimulation 16 Contact Lead Device To Improve Outcomes For Patients With Complex Symptoms

Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute announces it is the first in the state to implant a new type of deep brain stimulation (DBS) device that offers more personalized treatment for patients with Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor.

Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at JFK University Medical Center implanted the state’s first VerciseTM CartesiaTM X Directional Leads this month. The device with 16 contact directional leads allows for precise care for patients diagnosed with complex essential tremor or parkinsonian tremor not adequately controlled by medications and where the tremor constitutes a significant functional disability.

“We are proud to offer this new innovation in DBS surgery to our patients,” said Vanessa C. Milano, M.D., the performing neurosurgeon at JFK University Medical Center. “For many patients with complex Parkinson’s disease or essential tremor this device will offer greater customization and allow more precise targeting of the sources of the tremors while avoiding side effects.”

Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at Jersey Shore University Medical Center also implanted its first Vercise Cartesia X Directional leads this month.

“This 16 contact directional lead, allows us to treat even more patients with deep brain stimulation,” said Shabbar Danish, M.D., chair of Neurosurgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. “Many patients have complex tremors that need a multipronged target in the brain. We are thrilled to be able to offer this option to better serve these patients.”

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is like a pacemaker for the brain. It uses implanted electrodes, called leads, to send electrical signals to specific areas deep within the brain. These signals interrupt abnormal brain activity that causes symptoms in neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia.

“Through the contacts on the leads, we can adjust the strength, size, and frequency of the electrical signals to fine-tune the therapy for each individual,” said Dana Dolce, AGACNP, BC, neuromodulation program manager for Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute. “This precision to refine the size, shape, and location of the stimulation allows us to best control the patient's symptoms like tremor, slowness, and rigidity while avoiding unwanted side effects.”

Neuroscience Institute at Hackensack University Medical Center also offers deep brain stimulation with a variety of DBS systems and lead options. “It’s wonderful to be able to offer so many options to our patients,” says Hooman Azmi, director of Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery at Hackensack University Medical Center. “While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, being able to tailor treatments to each individual patient based on their lifestyle and preferences allows us to improve their quality of life and even slow disease progression.”

All three comprehensive centers offer robust movement disorder programs with neurologists, advanced practice providers, and neurosurgeons who specialize in surgical and non-surgical treatment options.

For more information about Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Neurosciences. For a free physician referral, call 844-HMH-WELL.