Complications of stimulator surgery

As with all types of surgery there is a small chance of complication. There is a risk of infection in the wound. It is also possible that there could be movement of the electrode or that the electrode when stimulated results in side effects or lack of benefit. If the latter complications arise, they may sometimes be corrected by replacing the electrode. It is reported that there is a 3% chance of stroke from deep brain stimulator procedures.

Further complications include delayed failure of stimulation or technical problems with the battery control box or electrodes. Again, surgical correction of such problems is sometimes possible.