Brain Implants Against Drug Addiction

Frederique Beck Staff Reporter, The Pawprint

At the West Virginia University Medicine Hospital on November first, 33 year old Gerod Buckhalter had an operation to help against his addiction. Lead doctor Ali Razai inserted an object in Mr Buckhalter’s brain that he described as a “pacemaker for the brain,” where a 1mm electrode was implanted in the area which regulates impulses and self-control. This operation and Mr Buckhalter will be monitored by a team of physicians, psychologists and addiction experts to study the effects of this operation. 

This surgery and operation fall under something called Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). This procedure has been used to treat or reduce diseases such as Parkinson’s and OCD. This study and findings will further future studies on addictions and brain surgery by gathering data, if the craving for drugs goes down or not. To add additional evidence and research, the operation will be conducted on 3 other volunteers who will also be studied and monitored.