APCOM

For the first time in Italy a rechargeable brain pacemaker that lasts three times more compared with traditional neurostimulators was implanted: it happened at the Orthopaedic Institute Galeazzi of Milano. The operation was carried out on a person suffering from Parkinson's disease, who will be able to recharge the new impulse generator periodically by using a proper electromagnetic belt.

The device assures a remarkably long operational life: 10 years, three times more than the life of the neurostimulators that have been used up to today. The new pacemaker doesn't need frequent replacements, thus avoiding many hospital procedures. Besides, the device's smaller size guarantees better results, as it is less invasive and, at the same time, more effective. After this successful operation, from January, 2009 the rechargeable neurostimulator will also be introduced in other hospitals.

"This operation is a significant breakthrough towards the ambitious goals of modern Functional Neurosurgery," underlined Domenico Servello, the head of the Functional Neurosurgery department, who carried out the operation. "The new brain pacemaker is suitable for young patients, as it allows to remove the blemishes caused by the bigger size of the previous devices. Furthermore, it is more adaptable to individual needs."