An S-shaped incision for the insertion of deep brain stimulators

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The S-shaped incision is a novel technique we have developed to minimise wound complications for the insertion of bilateral deep brain stimulators. An S-shaped incision incorporating both burrholes allows better exposure compared to the traditional bilateral incisions. The burrholes are drilled under each limb of the S and the incision does not run across them, decreasing the risk of infection. The electrodes are subsequently tunneled down the right side and connected to the battery. The use of the S-shaped incision results in less wound and electrode complications compared to the traditional bilateral linear incisions in our experience.