It's a medical first and it happened right here in Ohio.
Doctors at University Hospitals in Cleveland performed the first ever live brain surgery. People in 171 countries all over the world were able to tune in to the National Geographic Channel on Sunday night, to watch the procedure.
A team of more than a dozen surgeons and nurses performed the deep brain stimulation surgery on 49-year-old Greg Grindley, who suffers from early onset Parkinson’s disease. The disease causes tremors and shaking of the hands.
Grindley was awake during the procedure to answer questions from doctors that allowed the team to determine where to place the special electrodes. They hope these stimulators will help him gain more control over his movements. But don't worry, Grindley wasn't in any pain while he was awake.
Doctors were impressed with the initial results, but won't know if the surgery was a complete success for a few months. They say by broadcasting the surgery, they can help educate more viewers.
Instructional Links
Web Article: Parkinson's Disease
http://kidshealth.org/kid/grownup/conditions/parkinson.html#