Dr. Metzger has relocated to Arizona and has joined Barrow Brain and Spine. He is primarily based at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and the new office address is:

Barrow Brain and Spine
(Gilbert office)
3420 S. Mercy Rd, Ste 221
Gilbert, AZ 85297
(480) 681-7374

Patient Information

Deep Brain Stimulation

Movement Disorders Surgery Program

Dr. Metzger has been performing deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery for medically refractory movement disorders since October 2004 and has performed more of these procedures than any other neurosurgeon in New Mexico. Dr. Metzger started the DBS program with Dr. Jill Marjama-Lyons, a neurologist who subspecializes in movement disorders. The program has since been expanded and the surgery is now performed at both Lovelace Medical Center - downtown and Presbyterian Hospital.

 

photoWhat is Deep Brain Stimulation?

For select patients who become refractory to medical therapy, deep brain stimulation can improve many of the symptoms and signs of movement disorders. The surgery involves placement of electrodes usually on both sides of the brain using state-of-the-art targeting techniques including MRI based stereotactic guidance and microelectrode recording. The electrodes are then connected to a special pulse generator, much like a heart pacemaker. All of the implanted devices are under the skin. The DBS devices are made by Medtronic and additonal information is available on their website for Parkinson's disease and Essential tremor.

 

Treatable Conditions

  • Parkinson Disease
  • Essential tremor
  • Dystonia

How Can I Find Out If I Am a Candidiate for DBS Surgery?

Patients should first be evaluated by a neurologist who has expertise in movement disorders before considering surgical intervention. It is important to make sure that the diagnosis is correct and that the symptoms have become refractory to medication before considering DBS surgery.