Adaptive DBS compatible devices now available in Australia

From 1 July 2025, rechargeable Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) devices that are compatible with new “adaptive-DBS” technology are fully available in Australia.

These devices can already detect brain signals related to Parkinson’s disease using the electrodes implanted during surgery, which can assist clinicians in optimising DBS programming.

In the future—expected in 2026—they will also be able to automatically adjust stimulation in response to changes in brain activity, as is already possible in Europe and the USA. This adaptive-DBS technology upgrade will be done through a simple software update, with no need for another operation.

The SydneyDBS team implant both Boston Scientific and Medtronic DBS systems, based on patient preference.