Functional Neurosurgery and Movement Disorders

Functional Neurosurgery and Movement Disorders




Tulane Neurosurgery is recognized as a pioneer in the field of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, which is often referred to as “restorative neurosurgery”. To learn more about stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, click here. Dr. Donald Richardson, one of the originators of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), chaired Tulane’s Neurosurgery Department for 30 years, from 1980-2010, and was one of the first doctors in the United States to successfully perform DBS.

DBS involves implanting electrodes to alleviate symptoms from movement disorders. The amount of stimulation is controlled by a pacemaker-like device.

DBS is approved to treat:

  • Dystonia
  • Essential Tremor
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

DBS is being studied as a potential treatment for:

  • Addiction
  • Chronic Pain
  • Cluster Headache
  • Dementia
  • Depression
  • Huntington’s Disease
  • Stroke Recovery
  • Tourette Syndrome
  • Traumatic Brain Injury

Tulane fellowship trained Movement Disorders Neurologists, Dr. Neda Hidarilak and Dr. Sarah Perez, evaluate patients who may be candidates for DBS, and then work in collaboration with functional neurosurgeon, Dr. Robert Dallapiazza, to perform DBS surgery to restore neurological function and quality of life.

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What is a movement disorder?


Movement Disorders refers to a group of nervous system (neurological) conditions that cause abnormal increased movements, which may be voluntary or involuntary. Movement disorders can also cause reduced or slow movements. Common types of movement disorders include:


 

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Physicians who can help

Physicians who can help


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Dr. Sarah Perez


To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarah Perez, call 504-503-7001 for Metairie (fax a referral to 504-503-7002), or call 985-951-3222 for Covington (fax a referral to 985-951-3223).


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Dr. Neda Hidarilak


To schedule an appointment with Dr. Neda Hidarilak, call 985-951-3222 in Covington (fax a referral to 985-951-3223).


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Dr. Lora Kahn


To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kahn, call 504-503-7001 for Metairie (fax a referral to 504-503-7002), or call 985-951-3222 for Covington (fax a referral to 985-951-3223).