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Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
Also known as: DBS, Brain pacemaker, Adaptive DBS
An implanted "brain pacemaker" that sends electrical pulses to deep brain structures, mainly to treat Parkinson's disease and tremor.
DBS has been FDA-approved for decades for movement disorders, and more recently for epilepsy and OCD. Thin leads are placed deep in the brain and connected to a battery under the collarbone. Newer systems can also sense brain activity and adjust stimulation automatically (closed loop).
Last updated Sep 30, 2026. Educational content, not medical advice.