OCD is a serious neuropsychiatric disorder. Treatment often includes a combination of high dose antidepressants — such as fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, clomipramine — and specific type of psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
However, many people with OCD experience only partial relief of their symptoms with this treatment.
Some people show no improvement in their symptoms and struggle to perform day-to-day activities. This leads to severe problems with their relationships, work, and well-being.
DBS is an advanced clinical treatment for people with severe OCD who don't respond to traditional treatment options.
Doctors most often use DBS to treat movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease and dystonia. But the FDA approved DBS to treat OCD under a humanitarian device exemption.
To receive this treatment, you need to meet the requirements below.
You must be 18 years or older and have:
You won't be able to receive DBS treatment if you're pregnant, OCD-primary hoarding type.
DBS is a surgical technique performed by a specially trained neurosurgeon.
The doctor implants a thin wire (electrode) in the part of the brain causing your symptoms.
The wire connects to a pulse generator implanted under the skin below the collarbone. It carries mild electrical pulses to the brain to help control abnormal behaviors.
DBS is both adjustable and reversible.
DBS is very safe. The risk of a serious complication is about 1 percent.
We make every effort to reduce risks and watch you carefully after your DBS surgery.
Your current psychiatrist will need to refer you for an assessment by one of our OCD specialists.
We will gather your health records focusing on past treatments, including drugs and psychotherapy. We also will assess you for any health or other issues that might have an impact on your response to DBS.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with the Center for Interventional Psychiatry, please call 412-246-5063.