Today, Maastricht UMC + celebrates a special milestone: 25 years of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). This method, in which electrodes are placed in the brain, helps patients with complex neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease and tremors (involuntary, rhythmic shaking of one or more parts of the body).
DBS has improved the lives of many patients since 1999. The MUMC+ DBS team invites healthcare professionals, patients and their families to reflect on the past and future of this treatment.
Faster, better, and working together
The neurosurgeon Linda Ackermans has been working at the MUMC+ since 2013 and has successfully operated on dozens of patients. She says: “When we started 25 years ago, surgery took up to 12 hours and the patient had to stay awake. Now we are faster and patients can choose anesthesia. The best time is still when you see that the vibration goes down immediately during the operation. That is such a relief!”
Teamwork
According to Ackermans, the success is the result of teamwork: “From the initial selection by neurologists and psychologists to aftercare by a specialized team, everything has to be right. We can’t cure the condition, but we can make everyday life a lot better.”
Important
With around 40 DBS operations per year, the MUMC+ is one of the most important centers in the Netherlands. The team are proud of what they have achieved together and are celebrating this anniversary with patients, families and colleagues.
2024-11-26 10:39:00
#MUMC #celebrates #years #Deep #Brain #Stimulation
**Dr. Ackermans, how have advancements in imaging techniques, such as MRI and CT, improved the accuracy and safety of DBS surgery over the past 25 years? ** (This question focuses on a specific technological advancement and its impact on the procedure.)
## Celebrating 25 Years of Deep Brain Stimulation at MUMC+: An Interview
**Welcome to World Today News. Today, we’re marking a momentous occasion – the 25th anniversary of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) at Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+). To delve into the impact and future of DBS, we are joined by two esteemed guests: **
* **Dr. Linda Ackermans**, a neurosurgeon at MUMC+ who has performed dozens of DBS surgeries.
* **[Guest name]**, a patient who has benefitted from DBS treatment at MUMC+.
**Thank you both for joining us today.**
**Section 1: A Medical Milestone**
* **Dr. Ackermans, 25 years is a remarkable milestone. Could you walk us through the evolution of DBS since its inception at MUMC+? What are some of the most significant advancements you’ve witnessed?**
* **[Guest name], how did you first learn about DBS, and what led you to seek this treatment option?**
**Section 2: The Power of Teamwork**
* **Dr. Ackermans, you highlight the importance of teamwork in DBS. Can you elaborate on the various specialists involved in the process, from initial assessment to post-operative care?**
* **[Guest name], how would you describe your experience with the MUMC+ DBS team? Did you feel supported throughout your journey?**
**Section 3: Impact on Patients’ Lives**
* **Dr. Ackermans, what are some of the most rewarding aspects of performing DBS surgery? What impact have you seen it have on your patients’ quality of life?**
* **[Guest name], how has DBS impacted your daily life? What changes have you experienced since undergoing the procedure?**
**Section 4: The Future of DBS**
* **Dr. Ackermans, what are your hopes for the future of DBS? Are there any new developments or research areas you find particularly promising?**
* **[Guest name], what message would you give to others who are considering DBS as a treatment option?**
**Closing Remarks**
* **Dr. Ackermans and [Guest name], thank you both for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We wish MUMC+ continued success in its pioneering work with DBS.**
**Note:** This interview structure incorporates open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses and encourage diverse perspectives on DBS. It also allows room for the guest speakers to share personal anecdotes and reflections, adding depth and nuance to the discussion.
