Frontiers in Surgery (Aug 2016)
Presurgical Rehearsals for Patients Considering “Awake” Deep Brain Stimulation
Abstract
Simulated surgical environments are rapidly gaining adoption in training students, residents, and members of specailized surgical teams. However, minimal attention has been given to the use of simulated surgical environments to educate patients on surgical processes, particularly procedures that require the active participation of the patient. Awake neurosurgery provides a unique situation in which patients openly participate in their operation. We describe a case report, in which a 62 y.o. male was referred for awake deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation, in relation to medically-refractory Parkinson's Disease. The patient had significant concerns regarding anxiety and clastrophobia, and toleration of the awake procedure. Consequently, we designed a simulated OR environment and process, to recreate the physical experience of the procedure, with minimal cost or risk. This experience was crucial in determining the care plan, as after this experience, the patient opted for an asleep alternative. Thus, in certain settings, presurgical rehearsals may have a dramatic impact in the overall course of care.
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