Neurosurgeon to discuss Parkinson’s procedure at Sacred Heart

A neurosurgeon will present information about deep brain stimulation, a procedure that can reduce the effects of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, at an event Wednesday at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center.

Deep brain stimulation is a two-part operation that allows electrical pulses to be sent to the brain, reducing tremors in patients with Parkinson’s, dystonia or essential tremor.

First, holes are drilled into the patient’s skull and electrodes implanted in the brain. Later, surgeons implant one or two pacemaker-like devices in the patient’s chest.

The pulse generator in the chest is activated to stimulate the brain.

The informational session will run from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Providence Auditorium, 20 W. Ninth Ave. It will be led by Dr. Jonathan Carlson, a neurosurgeon; Dr. David Greeley, a neurologist; and Jamie Mark, a nurse practitioner.

The event is free. To register, go to phc.org.