Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a specialised neurosurgical technique that involves implanting electrodes deep within the brain and connecting them to a pacemaker that lies underneath the skin on the chest wall. Over the last 10 years its use has become routine in treating a number of chronic neurological conditions when they can no longer be treated by medication alone. The commonest indications are Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. Recent research has shown promise in treating severe cases of some chronic pain syndromes, Tourette syndrome, obsessive- compulsive disorder and refractory depression.

DBS does not provide a cure but it can provide significant improvements in symptoms and the quality of life of both patients and their families. Although it is an expensive treatment, several studies have shown that DBS results in cost savings for health services within 3 years of surgery because of the reduction in expensive medication and supportive care as well as by keeping younger patients in gainful employment.

Rather than send Maltese patients abroad for DBS surgery, the Ministry for Health, the Elderly and Community Care has invested in the equipment required for this type of surgery to be performed in Malta. This equipment can also be used to perform other types of neurosurgical procedures such as tumour biopsies. Treating patients in Malta has obvious advantages to patients and families and is more cost effective than paying for individual procedures abroad.

Ludvic Zrinzo, is Consultant Neurosurgeon at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery at Queen Square, London and is Visiting Consultant Neurosurgeon at Mater Dei Hospital for DBS procedures. Mr Zrinzo has recently completed his PhD thesis in Neurosurgery that focused on improving the accuracy, safety and efficacy of this technique. “Seeing patients benefiting from this procedure is extremely satisfying. The early results we have seen in the first 5 patients with Parkinson’s disease undergoing DBS surgery in Malta are extremely encouraging.” This type of surgery requires meticulous organization and tight collaboration between neurosurgeon, neurologist, radiology services, theatre and ward staff. “I work closely with Dr Josanne Aquilina, Consultant neurologist with many years experience in managing patients with movement disorders. It was a pleasure to work with all the staff at Mater Dei Hospital.”

On Thursday 28th July 2011, Mr Zrinzo met Joe Cassar, Minister for Health, the Elderly and Community Care, to inform him of the results obtained after the first DBS interventions at Mater Dei Hospital. Dr Cassar was shown footage of patients before and after the interventions.

“This is a remarkable achievement for our hospital and staff but even more so for our patients. I am not just satisfied at the historical progress we are witnessing today but feel deeply honoured that this leap forward is happening during my time as Minister. DBS surgery at Mater Dei Hospital is a proof that this Government is committed to improving the quality of life of our patients and their families. Over the decades we have seriously invested in Education and Health. We will continue to invest in the latest technology and in our best asset – human resources. I would like to express my gratitude to Mr Zrinzo and to the Neurology Department at Mater Dei Hospital for making us proud.”

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