Neurology in Minnesota

Frequently Asked Questions about the Movement Disorders Group

How can I get an appointment to be seen in the Mayo Movements Disorders Division in Rochester?

The group has a wait list for appointments of two to three months on average. Not all appointment requests can be honored. Expedited appointments are given to patients with a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease residing in Minnesota or the surrounding four states (Wisconsin, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota), whether self referred or physician referred.

Priority is otherwise given to patients with defined Movement Disorders who are physician referred. Surgical candidates are also given priority. Continuity of care is offered to patients meeting these criteria, particularly when requested by a referring physician.

What surgical procedures do you offer for patients with Movement Disorders at Mayo Rochester?

The group evaluates patients with spasmodic torticollis for selective denervation surgery. The group also evaluates patients with essential tremor or multiple sclerosis related tremor for thalamic stimulation surgery. Carefully selected patients with Parkinson's disease, particularly those with medication refractory tremor or severe dyskinesias, are candidates for pallidal stimulation surgery.

Presently, we do not offer bilateral subthalamic nucleus stimulation surgery or fetal or stem cell transplantation surgeries.

Can I obtain advice about my Movement Disorder without an appointment?

Our group is not able to provide this service. It is in the patient's best interest to undergo formal evaluation by a board certified neurologist.