Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad is revolutionizing the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, offering advanced options and holistic care to enhance the quality of life for patients. With a dedicated Movement Disorder Clinic and support from government health programs, NIMS is making significant strides in transforming outcomes for individuals grappling with this neurological condition.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that impacts movement and motor control, presenting challenges such as tremors, slowness of movement, muscle stiffness, and balance issues. Beyond these physical symptoms, patients also face non-motor challenges like anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances, adding layers of complexity to their daily lives. Despite medical advancements improving patient outcomes, the journey with Parkinson’s remains arduous for both patients and caregivers.
Dr. Sireesha Yareeda, an additional professor and senior neurologist at NIMS, emphasizes the crucial role of timely intervention in managing Parkinson’s disease effectively. According to Dr. Yareeda, early diagnosis and treatment, coupled with innovative approaches like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), can empower patients to lead active and fulfilling lives. DBS, a cornerstone treatment at NIMS, becomes a viable option after several years of medication therapy, especially when drugs lose efficacy or induce troubling side effects. This procedure involves implanting electrodes in specific brain regions, connected to a chest wall battery, to alleviate symptoms with minimal surgical risks.
Dr. Yerramneni Vamsi Krishna, professor, and head of neurosurgery at NIMS, highlights the benefits of ablation procedures for select patients, where targeted brain areas are lesioned with heat to further enhance their quality of life. The comprehensive care offered at the Movement Disorder Clinic extends beyond Parkinson’s to encompass related conditions like dystonia and tremors, catering to a diverse range of neurological needs. Importantly, the inclusion of DBS in government health schemes like Aarogyasri and the Employee Health Scheme has made this advanced surgery more accessible to patients in need.
The integration of DBS into these health programs has significantly increased the reach and impact of this transformative treatment option. Since August 2024, over 93 patients have undergone DBS at NIMS under these schemes, marking a significant milestone in the institute’s commitment to enhancing patient care and outcomes. Through a combination of medical expertise, cutting-edge techniques, and compassionate care, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences is paving the way for a brighter future for individuals battling Parkinson’s disease.
As we witness the evolving landscape of healthcare and treatment modalities, institutions like NIMS serve as beacons of hope and progress, offering a blend of innovation and empathy to those in need. With a focus on holistic well-being and personalized care, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences stands at the forefront of Parkinson’s disease management, setting a benchmark for excellence in neurological care. Through collaborative efforts and a patient-centric approach, NIMS continues to redefine the standards of care, one breakthrough at a time.
