Revolutionary Deep Brain Stimulation Offers Hope and Relief for Children Battling Dystonia, Declare Experts
A 16-year-old girl from Mysuru has been diagnosed with idiopathic dystonia, a severe movement disorder causing severe forward bending of her neck and trunk over the past year. Unable to perform basic tasks like sitting, standing, or walking, she finds solace only while lying down. Due to her condition, she has discontinued her education and mostly remains bedridden. Admitted to NIMHANS, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery is her only hope for recovery. However, the cost, ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹15 lakh even in government hospitals, places a heavy financial burden on her family who are currently seeking support.
To raise awareness about such conditions, World Movement Disorders Day is observed on November 29. Dr. Pramod Kumar Pal from NIMHANS highlights DBS as a crucial yet expensive treatment, accentuating the need for community support as financial limitations pose significant hindrances for many patients. Dr. Vikram V. Holla emphasized that NIMHANS sees about 60 new cases weekly, with nearly 600 annual dystonia cases, over half of which are children. He notes the gap in treatment accessibility due to financial constraints, with government relief funds providing only partial aid.
For more information, Dr. Pal and Dr. Holla can be contacted at palpramod@hotmail.com and vholla@nimhans.ac.in, respectively.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/deep-brain-stimulation-an-appropriate-therapeutic-option-for-children-with-dystonia-say-doctors/article68923179.ece
Category : Karnataka
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