Final answer:
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment for Huntington's disease that involves implanting electrodes in specific parts of the brain to modulate abnormal brain activity. It can alleviate symptoms such as movement problems, psychiatric symptoms, and cognitive impairments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical treatment for Huntington's disease (HD) that involves implanting electrodes in specific parts of the brain. These electrodes deliver electrical impulses to modulate abnormal brain activity associated with HD. DBS can help alleviate symptoms such as movement problems, psychiatric symptoms, and cognitive impairments.
DBS targets a region of the brain called the basal ganglia, which plays a role in controlling movement and behavior. By stimulating or inhibiting specific areas of the basal ganglia, DBS can help regulate neural circuitry and reduce the symptoms of HD.
The procedure involves three main components: the electrodes, the extension wires, and the impulse generator. The electrodes are placed in the brain, the extension wires run under the skin to the impulse generator, which is typically implanted in the chest or abdomen. The patient or a healthcare professional can adjust the stimulation parameters using an external programmer.