During open-heart brain surgery at UW Health in Wisconsin in 2022, a musician mimicked playing the trombone to help doctors fine-tune the procedure to stop debilitating hand tremors, WISN 12 reported.
A lifelong trombonist, Brian Rust's tremors had worsened, making it difficult for him to maintain his passion for music or carry out simple tasks like holding his grandchildren. According to Last was diagnosed with intention tremor, and her condition worsened until medication and treatments no longer worked, according to WISN 12.
Last's final option was deep brain stimulation, a procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to block the erroneous signals that cause the tremors, the outlet reported. Led by neurosurgeon Dr. Wendell Lake, the procedure required Last to remain awake so doctors could make sure the electrodes were placed correctly, the outlet reported.
This is an amazing story! During brain surgery translation:The patient brought in a trombone and performed the hand movements required to play the instrument to check that the procedure was working.https://t.co/e47ax1OXi7
— Mallory Anderson (@MalloryNews) September 13, 2024
“You have to pay attention to the patient because you have to tell them to do certain movements to make sure the wire is where it needs to be,” Dr Lake said, according to the media.
Last suggested using a trombone to observe hand movements, and while they couldn't actually play it to simplify the process, repeating the movements provided important feedback, the outlet reported.
“The entire operating room staff gathered around to watch Brian 'play' the instrument during the procedure,” anesthesiologist Dr. Whitney Fallahian said, according to the outlet. “It was something I never expected to see.”
With each adjustment, Last's hand became more stable, indicating that the surgery was successful. (Related article: The world's first supermodel reveals her plastic surgery history)
Last now controls the stimulator through a device implanted in his chest, allowing him to switch between everyday life and playing the trombone, according to the outlet. He has returned to performing and hopes his story will encourage others who suffer from tremors to consider similar treatments.
“There are plenty of options available to you to continue enjoying the things you love,” Last said, according to the media outlet.
