Woman plays clarinet during four-hour brain surgery

Woman plays clarinet during four-hour brain surgery

Denise Bacon, a 65-year-old woman, recently underwent a unique experience during her brain surgery. Suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, which affected her ability to engage in activities she once enjoyed such as walking, swimming, dancing, and playing the clarinet, Denise opted for deep brain stimulation (DBS) to alleviate her symptoms. Conducted by Professor Keyoumars Ashkan at King’s College Hospital, this four-hour surgery allowed Denise to play her clarinet while remaining conscious.

The decision to perform the surgery while Denise was awake was crucial in ensuring the accuracy of the procedure. Professor Ashkan utilized Denise’s talent with the clarinet to fine-tune the placement of the electrodes in her brain. As Denise played her instrument, she noticed a significant improvement in the agility and speed of her fingers, a remarkable experience that she described as “amazing.” The precision of the surgery ultimately enabled Denise to regain the ability to play her beloved clarinet, a significant milestone in her journey with Parkinson’s Disease.

This innovative approach to DBS surgery highlights the importance of personalized care and utilizing a patient’s unique abilities to enhance the success of medical procedures. Denise’s story serves as a testament to the power of music and determination in overcoming challenges associated with neurological conditions. With the guidance of skilled medical professionals like Professor Ashkan, individuals like Denise can experience life-changing improvements in their quality of life.

For more information on Denise’s inspiring journey and the impact of DBS surgery, visit the BBC article linked here

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More