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Revolutionary electrodes against Parkinson's: Highest precision from Würzburg!
On June 18, 2025, the Würzburg University Hospital was the first German hospital to implant the latest DBS electrode technology for Parkinson's treatment.
Revolutionary electrodes against Parkinson's: Highest precision from Würzburg!
A significant step in the treatment of Parkinson's patients was taken on June 18, 2025 at the Würzburg University Hospital (UKW). The first nationwide implantation of the new Vercise Cartesia X electrodes took place here. This innovative technology, which could significantly improve the quality of life of people with movement disorders, was used in a 69-year-old patient. The electrodes are used in deep brain stimulation (DBS) and are characterized by their high precision, as they are the first and only directional electrodes with 16 contacts on the market.
As [in-und-um-schweinfurt.de](https://in-und-um-schweinfurt.de/auto/ Successful-erstimplantation-einer-neuen-elektrode-fuer-die-tiefe-hirnstimulation-in-wuerzburgo/) reports, DBS technology works through targeted electrical impulses that are sent to specific brain regions. These impulses aim to harmonize the disturbed function of areas of the brain and thereby alleviate symptoms such as tremors and muscle stiffness. Two electrodes are implanted into the brain and connected to a brain pacemaker located under the collarbone.
A tailor-made advance
The new generation of electrodes enables more precise adaptation to individual disease progression. Prof. Dr. Cordula Matthies, head of functional neurosurgery at UKW, describes the technique as a “tailor-made, highly precise therapy”. The first successes were seen just three weeks after the procedure: the patient was very satisfied with the process. The positive results make not only the treating doctors but also the researchers optimistic.
The development of the Vercise Cartesia X was the result of a comprehensive European study in which the Würzburg movement disorders team was involved. The associated brain pacemaker, the Vercise Genus, is implanted below the collarbone and connected to the brain electrodes. This new development doubles the electrode contacts and allows a 360° selectable orientation, resulting in more individual stimulation.
Technological support
New software that automatically calculates and simulates individual stimulation programs based on brain images supports the procedure. According to Prof. Dr. For Jens Volkmann, director of the UKW Neurological Clinic, this makes both planning and later adjustment of the electrode contacts easier.
For many sufferers, deep brain stimulation is the most effective long-term treatment option for advanced Parkinson's disease. According to UKW, more than 1.2 million people in Europe currently suffer from Parkinson's disease, and the number could double by 2030. This technology offers hope for many, as the degenerative disease often leads to drastic changes in the everyday lives of those affected.
An interdisciplinary team of neurologists, neurosurgeons and therapists work closely together to ensure the best treatment options for patients with Parkinson's and other neurological diseases. The outpatient clinic for deep brain stimulation, as organized at the LMU Klinikum, offers comprehensive diagnostics and advice for those affected and those interested in DBS therapies.
Overall, it can be said that the new developments in the field of deep brain stimulation not only make people sit up and take notice from a medical perspective, but also fuel the hope of many patients. A good hand for the future of Parkinson's patients, that's to be hoped!