British surgeons performed a groundbreaking deep brain stimulation procedure on a Parkinson’s patient, using her clarinet playing during surgery to fine-tune the treatment and immediately restore her musical ability.
Denise Bacon, 64, played her clarinet while awake on the operating table in London. This innovative approach allowed medical staff to observe her finger movement improvements in real time.
Her ability to play the instrument improved immediately, providing critical feedback that guided surgeons in precisely adjusting the brain stimulation.
Professor Keyoumars Ashkan, a neurosurgeon, led the team at King’s College Hospital for the four-hour procedure.
Ms. Bacon, a former speech and language therapist and amateur musician from East Sussex, had stopped playing the clarinet over five years ago. Parkinson’s disease had caused severe stiffness and slow movement, making her fingers too immobile to play.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a widely used neurological technique where small electrodes are implanted into deep areas of the brain. These electrodes deliver electrical signals to control movement, functioning much like a pacemaker for the brain.
During the surgery, Ms. Bacon received only local anesthesia to her head and skull. This ensured she remained conscious and could actively participate by playing her instrument.
Professor Ashkan told Sky News that he often customizes surgeries to meet individual patient goals. While some patients prioritize walking, for Ms. Bacon, the ability to play music was crucial for her quality of life.
Post-surgery, Ms. Bacon expressed her joy. “I could walk normally immediately after the surgery,” she said, adding, “It’s like life opened a new door again, and like there’s a future again.”
She received a rechargeable brain stimulator, implanted in her chest, designed to operate for up to 20 years before requiring replacement.
While Parkinson’s disease currently has no cure, DBS technology is expected to significantly enhance Ms. Bacon’s quality of life for many years to come.