What it is
Electrodes placed in deep brain targets (usually STN or GPi) deliver adjustable electrical stimulation from a pacemaker-like device under the skin. For well-selected Parkinson's patients whose medication still works but fluctuates, DBS can smooth out the day dramatically.
Selection is everything
The best DBS outcomes come from careful patient selection — diagnosis confirmation, levodopa response testing, cognitive screening. High-volume centers do this well; Xuanwu Hospital's movement-disorder program is among Asia's most experienced.
Device options
Beijing centers implant both imported systems and established Chinese-made systems (PINS, SceneRay), which cost significantly less. Total surgery costs including the device are commonly quoted in the $20,000–$35,000 range — individually quoted after evaluation.
Follow-up
Programming (adjusting the stimulation) happens over the following months; initial programming is done in Beijing and can often be coordinated with a neurologist at home afterwards.