Southmead Hospital’s Bristol Brain Centre has made history by becoming the first UK hospital to activate a groundbreaking technology aimed at alleviating Parkinson’s symptoms. The hospital’s use of adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) technology has already proven to be life-changing for John Morgan, a Cardiff man who has been managing his symptoms with traditional deep brain stimulation for over two years. The newly upgraded device, which responds to real-time electrical signals in the brain, has led to smoother movement control and a reduction in medication for John.
Following the CE Mark approval in January, which allows the use of Medtronic’s aDBS technology in the UK and Europe, North Bristol NHS Trust’s Brain Centre became the pioneering UK hospital to initiate the use of this game-changing technology. The upgrade marks a significant development in deep brain stimulation, as it allows the device to adapt to individual brainwave activity and adjust stimulation levels accordingly, paving the way for a more personalized treatment approach.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s almost two decades ago at the age of 33, John has experienced a gradual slowing of his movements over the years. While medication has been effective in managing his symptoms, it often triggers dyskinesia—uncontrollable, jerky movements that can be as debilitating as the condition itself. With the help of DBS, the need for medication has been reduced, minimizing these distressing side effects.
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John describes the impact of the adaptive deep brain stimulation on his life as “life-changing,” enabling him to continue working as a lawyer with newfound confidence. He expressed his gratitude for being considered an eligible patient for the advanced treatment, noting the device’s ability to automatically adjust the level of brain stimulation 24 hours a day, which has significantly improved his movement.
Consulting neurologist Dr. Mihaela Boca, who has overseen John’s treatment, highlighted the positive results, including improved walking and movement control. Additionally, the aDBS has allowed for a reduction in the medication required to manage John’s symptoms, thereby decreasing the associated side effects. Moving forward, the team at North Bristol NHS Trust’s Brain Centre is excited to witness how this pioneering technology will benefit more patients in the months and years to come.