PhD Defence Mehmet Tönge

Keywords: Avoidance, Complication, Deep brain stimulation, Management 
 

"Complications in deep brain stimulation surgery: Avoidance and management"

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery has been successfully used for over 35 years to treat nearly 300,000 patients with various neurological and psychiatric conditions. In recent years, the number of patients receiving this treatment has grown rapidly due to new medical indications and its increasing global use. This doctoral thesis focuses on the side effects and potential complications associated with DBS. It examines how these issues can be prevented and how best to manage them when they arise. The scientific findings aim to help healthcare professionals reduce complication rates and improve treatment strategies. In addition, this thesis addresses the economic impact of DBS-related complications, such as infections, and proposes algorithms to lower overall treatment costs while ensuring effective patient care. It also explores a newer and less understood complication—postoperative brain swelling (edema)—that may occur in some patients. Overall, this work offers valuable new insights into the risks and management of complications in DBS surgery. 

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