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Nathan CL, Gavvala JR, Chaitanya G, Cunningham E, Lee JJ, Adney S, Rosenow J, Schuele S, Gerard E. High-Frequency Stimulation of the Centromedian Thalamic Nucleus Aborts Seizures and Ictal Apnea. J Clin Neurophysiol 2024:00004691-990000000-00143. [PMID: 38916942 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000001098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY A 32-year-old right-handed woman presented with medically and surgically refractory left temporal neocortical epilepsy secondary to focal cortical dysplasia who underwent stereoelectroencephalography involving the centromedian nucleus of the thalamus. With the use of real-time stereoelectroencephalography monitoring, four electroclinical seizures were aborted by administering high-frequency stimulation at the centromedian nucleus at seizure onset. Seizures before stimulation were all associated with ictal apnea, while those with stimulation had no ictal apnea. This case demonstrates how providing high-frequency stimulation to the centromedian nucleus of the thalamus can abort electroclinical seizures and ictal apnea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody L Nathan
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Jay R Gavvala
- Department of Neurology, UT Health Houston McGovern School of Medicine, Houston, Texas, U.S.A
| | - Ganne Chaitanya
- Department of Neurology, UT Health Houston McGovern School of Medicine, Houston, Texas, U.S.A
| | - Elizabeth Cunningham
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Jungwha Julia Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.; and
| | - Scott Adney
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Joshua Rosenow
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Stephan Schuele
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Elizabeth Gerard
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A
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Arredondo K, Ostendorf AP, Ahrens S, Beatty CW, Pindrik J, Shaikhouni A. Post-ictal Rhythmic Thalamic Activity of the Centromedian Nucleus. J Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 41:326-333. [PMID: 36893381 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000000991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Deep brain stimulation of the centromedian nucleus of the thalamus (CMN) to treat drug-resistant epilepsy has been of interest for decades. However, little is known about the electrophysiological activity of the CMN during seizures. We describe a novel CMN EEG finding associated with seizure: post-ictal rhythmic thalamic activity. METHODS Five patients with drug-resistant epilepsy of unknown etiology with focal onset seizures underwent stereoelectroencephalography monitoring as part of evaluation for potential resective surgery or neuromodulation. Two patients had previously undergone complete corpus callosotomy and vagus nerve stimulation. A standardized plan for implantation included targets in the bilateral CMN. RESULTS Each patient had frontal onset seizures, and two patients had additional insular, parietal, or mesial temporal onset seizures. Contacts of CMN were involved synchronously or rapidly after onset in most recorded seizures, particularly those with frontal onset. Focal onset hemiclonic and bilateral tonic-clonic seizures spread to involve cortical contacts with high-amplitude rhythmic spiking followed by abrupt offset with diffuse voltage attenuation. A post-ictal rhythmic 1.5 to 2.5 Hz delta frequency pattern, post-ictal rhythmic thalamic activity, emerged in CMN contacts amid the suppression of background activity in cortical contacts. In the two patients with corpus callosotomy, unilateral seizure spread and ipsilateral post-ictal rhythmic thalamic activity were observed. CONCLUSIONS We observed post-ictal rhythmic thalamic activity in five patients with stereoelectroencephalography monitoring of the CMN with convulsive seizures. This rhythm appears late in ictal evolution and may signal an important role of the CMN in seizure termination. Furthermore, this rhythm may help identify CMN involvement in the epileptic network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Arredondo
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, U.S.A
| | - Adam P Ostendorf
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, U.S.A; and
| | - Stephanie Ahrens
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, U.S.A; and
| | - Christopher W Beatty
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, U.S.A; and
| | - Jonathan Pindrik
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, U.S.A
| | - Ammar Shaikhouni
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, U.S.A
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Bonda D, Kelly KA, Boop S, Feroze AH, Randle SC, Bindschadler M, Marashly A, Owens J, Lockrow J, Bozarth X, Novotny E, Friedman S, Goldstein HE, Grannan BL, Durfy S, Ojemann JG, Ko AL, Hauptman JS. Deep Brain Stimulation of Bilateral Centromedian Thalamic Nuclei in Pediatric Patients with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome: An Institutional Experience. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e631-e639. [PMID: 38403017 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.02.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgical management of pediatric patients with nonlesional, drug-resistant epilepsy, including patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), remains a challenge given the lack of resective targets in most patients and shows seizure freedom rates <50% at 5 years. The efficacy of deep brain stimulation (DBS) is less certain in children than in adults. This study examined clinical and seizure outcomes for pediatric patients with LGS undergoing DBS targeting of the centromedian thalamic nuclei (CMTN). METHODS An institutional review board-approved retrospective analysis was performed of patients aged ≤19 years with clinical diagnosis of LGS undergoing bilateral DBS placement to the CMTN from 2020 to 2021 by a single surgeon. RESULTS Four females and 2 males aged 6-19 years were identified. Before surgery, each child experienced at least 6 years of refractory seizures; 4 children had experienced seizures since infancy. All took antiseizure medications at the time of surgery. Five children had previous placement of a vagus nerve stimulator and 2 had a previous corpus callosotomy. The mean length of stay after DBS was 2 days. No children experienced adverse neurologic effects from implantation; the mean follow-up time was 16.3 months. Four patients had >60% reduction in seizure frequency after surgery, 1 patient experienced 10% reduction, and 1 patient showed no change. No children reported worsening seizure symptoms after surgery. CONCLUSIONS Our study contributes to the sparse literature describing CMTN DBS for children with drug-resistant epilepsy from LGS. Our results suggest that CMTN DBS is a safe and effective therapeutic modality that should be considered as an alternative or adjuvant therapy for this challenging patient population. Further studies with larger patient populations are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Bonda
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Katherine A Kelly
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Scott Boop
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Abdullah H Feroze
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Stephanie C Randle
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mike Bindschadler
- Center for Respiratory Therapy and Biologics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ahmad Marashly
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - James Owens
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Jason Lockrow
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Xiuhua Bozarth
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Edward Novotny
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA; Neurosciences Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Seth Friedman
- Center for Respiratory Therapy and Biologics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Hannah E Goldstein
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Neurosciences Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Neurosurgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Benjamin L Grannan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sharon Durfy
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jeffrey G Ojemann
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Neurosciences Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Neurosurgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Andrew L Ko
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jason S Hauptman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Neurosciences Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA; Division of Neurosurgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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Al-Ramadhani R, Hect JL, Abel TJ. The changing landscape of palliative epilepsy surgery for Lennox Gastaut Syndrome. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1380423. [PMID: 38515452 PMCID: PMC10954786 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1380423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Lennox Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) is characterized by drug-resistant epilepsy that typically leads to decreased quality of life and deleterious neurodevelopmental comorbidities from medically refractory seizures. In recent years there has been a dramatic increase in the development and availability of novel treatment strategies for Lennox Gastaut Syndrome patient to improve seizure. Recent advances in neuromodulation and minimally invasive magnetic resonance guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) have paved the way for new treatments strategies including deep brain stimulation (DBS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), and MRgLITT corpus callosum ablation. These new strategies offer hope for children with drug-resistant generalized epilepsies, but important questions remain about the safety and effectiveness of these new approaches. In this review, we describe the opportunities presented by these new strategies and how each treatment strategy is currently being employed. Next, we will critically assess available evidence for these new approaches compared to traditional palliative epilepsy surgery approaches, such as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and open microsurgical corpus callosotomy (CC). Finally, we will describe future directions that would help define which of the available strategies should be employed and when.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruba Al-Ramadhani
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Child Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jasmine L. Hect
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Taylor J. Abel
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Sharma A, Parfyonov M, Tiefenbach J, Hogue O, Nero N, Jehi L, Serletis D, Bingaman W, Gupta A, Rammo R. Predictors of therapeutic response following thalamic neuromodulation for drug-resistant pediatric epilepsy: A systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis. Epilepsia 2024; 65:542-555. [PMID: 38265348 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
We sought to perform a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis to identify predictors of treatment response following thalamic neuromodulation in pediatric patients with medically refractory epilepsy. Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Ovid, Embase, and Cochrane) were searched, with no language or data restriction, to identify studies reporting seizure outcomes in pediatric populations following deep brain stimulation (DBS) or responsive neurostimulation (RNS) implantation in thalamic nuclei. Studies featuring individual participant data of patients with primary or secondary generalized drug-resistant epilepsy were included. Response to therapy was defined as >50% reduction in seizure frequency from baseline. Of 417 citations, 21 articles reporting on 88 participants were eligible. Mean age at implantation was 13.07 ± 3.49 years. Fifty (57%) patients underwent DBS, and 38 (43%) RNS. Sixty (68%) patients were implanted in centromedian nucleus and 23 (26%) in anterior thalamic nucleus, and five (6%) had both targets implanted. Seventy-four (84%) patients were implanted bilaterally. The median time to last follow-up was 12 months (interquartile range = 6.75-26.25). Sixty-nine percent of patients achieved response to treatment. Age, target, modality, and laterality had no significant association with response in univariate logistic regression. Until thalamic neuromodulation gains widespread approval for use in pediatric patients, data on efficacy will continue to be limited to small retrospective cohorts and case series. The inherent bias of these studies can be overcome by using individual participant data. Thalamic neuromodulation appears to be a safe and effective treatment for epilepsy. Larger, prolonged prospective, multicenter studies are warranted to further evaluate the efficacy of DBS over RNS in this patient population where resection for curative intent is not a safe option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Maksim Parfyonov
- Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jakov Tiefenbach
- Center for Neurologic Restoration, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Olivia Hogue
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Neil Nero
- Education Institute, Floyd D. Loop Alumni Library, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Lara Jehi
- Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Demitre Serletis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - William Bingaman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ajay Gupta
- Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Richard Rammo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Center for Neurologic Restoration, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Warren AEL, Tobochnik S, Chua MMJ, Singh H, Stamm MA, Rolston JD. Neurostimulation for Generalized Epilepsy: Should Therapy be Syndrome-specific? Neurosurg Clin N Am 2024; 35:27-48. [PMID: 38000840 PMCID: PMC10676463 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Current applications of neurostimulation for generalized epilepsy use a one-target-fits-all approach that is agnostic to the specific epilepsy syndrome and seizure type being treated. The authors describe similarities and differences between the 2 "archetypes" of generalized epilepsy-Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy-and review recent neuroimaging evidence for syndrome-specific brain networks underlying seizures. Implications for stimulation targeting and programming are discussed using 5 clinical questions: What epilepsy syndrome does the patient have? What brain networks are involved? What is the optimal stimulation target? What is the optimal stimulation paradigm? What is the plan for adjusting stimulation over time?
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron E L Warren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Steven Tobochnik
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa M J Chua
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hargunbir Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michaela A Stamm
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John D Rolston
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Remore LG, Rifi Z, Nariai H, Eliashiv DS, Fallah A, Edmonds BD, Matsumoto JH, Salamon N, Tolossa M, Wei W, Locatelli M, Tsolaki EC, Bari AA. Structural connections of the centromedian nucleus of thalamus and their relevance for neuromodulation in generalized drug-resistant epilepsy: insight from a tractography study. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2023; 16:17562864231202064. [PMID: 37822361 PMCID: PMC10563482 DOI: 10.1177/17562864231202064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epilepsy is a widespread neurologic disorder and almost one-third of patients suffer from drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Neuromodulation targeting the centromediannucleus of the thalamus (CM) has been showing promising results for patients with generalized DRE who are not surgical candidates. Recently, the effect of CM- deep brain stimulation (DBS) in DRE patients was investigated in the Electrical Stimulation of Thalamus for Epilepsy of Lennox-Gastaut phenotype (ESTEL) trial, a monocentric randomized-controlled study. The same authors described a 'cold-spot' and a 'sweet-spot', which are defined as the volume of stimulation in the thalamus yielding the least and the best clinical response, respectively. However, it remains unclear which structural connections may contribute to the anti-seizure effect of the stimulation. Objective We investigated the differences in structural connectivity among CM, the sweet-spot and the cold-spot. Furthermore, we tried to validate our results in a cohort of DRE patients who underwent CM-DBS or CM-RNS (responsive neurostimulation). We hypothesized that the sweet-spot would share similar structural connectivity with responder patients. Methods By using the software FMRIB Software Library (FSL), probabilistic tractography was performed on 100 subjects from the Human Connectome Project to calculate the probability of connectivity of the whole CM, the sweet-spot and the cold-spot to 45 cortical and subcortical areas. Results among the three seeds were compared with multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Similarly, the structural connectivity of volumes of tissue activated (VTAs) from eight DRE patients was investigated. Patients were divided into responders and non-responders based on the degree of reduction in seizure frequency, and the mean probabilities of connectivity were similarly compared between the two groups. Results The sweet-spot demonstrated a significantly higher probability of connectivity (p < 0.001) with the precentral gyrus, superior frontal gyrus, and the cerebellum than the whole CM and the cold-spot. Responder patients displayed a higher probability of connectivity with both ipsilateral (p = 0.011) and contralateral cerebellum (p = 0.04) than the non-responders. Conclusion Cerebellar connections seem to contribute to the beneficial effects of CM-neuromodulation in patients with drug-resistant generalized epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi G. Remore
- Surgical Neuromodulation and Brain Mapping Laboratory, ULCA
- Department of Neurosurgery, 300 Stein Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- University of Milan ‘La Statale’, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Ziad Rifi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hiroki Nariai
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dawn S. Eliashiv
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Aria Fallah
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin D. Edmonds
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joyce H. Matsumoto
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Noriko Salamon
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Meskerem Tolossa
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Wexin Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marco Locatelli
- University of Milan ‘La Statale’, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- ‘Aldo Ravelli’ Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Evangelia C. Tsolaki
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ausaf A. Bari
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Geffen School of Medicine David California Los Angeles University of Angeles Los CA, USA
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Venkatesh P, Wolfe C, Lega B. Neuromodulation of the anterior thalamus: Current approaches and opportunities for the future. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 5:100109. [PMID: 38020810 PMCID: PMC10663132 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2023.100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of thalamocortical circuits in memory has driven a recent burst of scholarship, especially in animal models. Investigating this circuitry in humans is more challenging. And yet, the development of new recording and stimulation technologies deployed for clinical indications has created novel opportunities for data collection to elucidate the cognitive roles of thalamic structures. These technologies include stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and responsive neurostimulation (RNS), all of which have been applied to memory-related thalamic regions, specifically for seizure localization and treatment. This review seeks to summarize the existing applications of neuromodulation of the anterior thalamic nuclei (ANT) and highlight several devices and their capabilities that can allow cognitive researchers to design experiments to assay its functionality. Our goal is to introduce to investigators, who may not be familiar with these clinical devices, the capabilities, and limitations of these tools for understanding the neurophysiology of the ANT as it pertains to memory and other behaviors. We also briefly cover the targeting of other thalamic regions including the centromedian (CM) nucleus, dorsomedial (DM) nucleus, and pulvinar, with associated potential avenues of experimentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Venkatesh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Cody Wolfe
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Bradley Lega
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
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Shlobin NA, Hofmann K, Cohen NT, Koubeissi MZ, Gaillard WD, Oluigbo CO. Deep Brain Stimulation of the Centromedian Nucleus of the Thalamus for Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Individual Patient Data Analysis. Neurosurgery 2023; 92:703-715. [PMID: 36700706 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000002280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is a severe childhood-onset pharmacoresistant epilepsy. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the centromedian nucleus of the thalamus (CMN) has been utilized. OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review and individual patient data (IPD) analysis to characterize outcomes of DBS of CMN in LGS. METHODS PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Articles were screened by title/abstract then full text. Included articles were reviewed for bibliographic, demographic, and outcome data. IPD were extracted from studies providing IPD for all patients. RESULTS Of 72 resultant articles, 10 studies (114 patients) were included. Six of 7 studies reporting the outcome of ≥50% seizure reduction indicated that ≥50% of patients achieved this, with improved functional ability. Seizure freedom rate was generally <10%. Six studies with 47 patients provided IPD. The mean ages at epilepsy onset and CMN DBS were 3.9 ± 4.5 years and 17.4 ± 8.8 years, respectively. Nineteen of 41 (46.3%) patients had positive MRI findings. Seizure types included atypical absence in 39 (83.0%) patients, generalized tonic-clonic in 32 (68.1%), tonic in 22 (46.8%), and atonic in 20 (42.6%). Thirty-eight (80.9%) patients experienced ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency, and only 3 (6.4%) experienced seizure freedom. The mean seizure reduction was 62.9% ± 31.2% overall. Quality of life improved in 30/34 (88.2%) and was unchanged in the remainder (11.8%). The complication rate was 2/41 (4.9%). The mean length of follow-up was 19.8 ± 26.1 months (IQR: 4-18 months). CONCLUSION Limited data indicate that DBS of the CMN may be effective and safe for people with LGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Shlobin
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Katherine Hofmann
- Deparment of Neurosurgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Nathan T Cohen
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Mohamad Z Koubeissi
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - William D Gaillard
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Chima O Oluigbo
- Deparment of Neurosurgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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10
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Lundstrom BN, Osman GM, Starnes K, Gregg NM, Simpson HD. Emerging approaches in neurostimulation for epilepsy. Curr Opin Neurol 2023; 36:69-76. [PMID: 36762660 PMCID: PMC9992108 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Neurostimulation is a quickly growing treatment approach for epilepsy patients. We summarize recent approaches to provide a perspective on the future of neurostimulation. RECENT FINDINGS Invasive stimulation for treatment of focal epilepsy includes vagus nerve stimulation, responsive neurostimulation of the cortex and deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus. A wide range of other targets have been considered, including centromedian, central lateral and pulvinar thalamic nuclei; medial septum, nucleus accumbens, subthalamic nucleus, cerebellum, fornicodorsocommissure and piriform cortex. Stimulation for generalized onset seizures and mixed epilepsies as well as increased efforts focusing on paediatric populations have emerged. Hardware with more permanently implanted lead options and sensing capabilities is emerging. A wider variety of programming approaches than typically used may improve patient outcomes. Finally, noninvasive brain stimulation with its favourable risk profile offers the potential to treat increasingly diverse epilepsy patients. SUMMARY Neurostimulation for the treatment of epilepsy is surprisingly varied. Flexibility and reversibility of neurostimulation allows for rapid innovation. There remains a continued need for excitability biomarkers to guide treatment and innovation. Neurostimulation, a part of bioelectronic medicine, offers distinctive benefits as well as unique challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Keith Starnes
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Hugh D Simpson
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Frameless Robot-Assisted Asleep Centromedian Thalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery in Patients with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: Technical Description and Short-Term Clinical Results. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:977-993. [PMID: 36892782 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00451-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This purpose of this work is to give a detailed description of a surgical technique for frameless robot-assisted asleep deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the centromedian thalamic nucleus (CMT) in drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). METHODS Ten consecutively enrolled patients who underwent CMT-DBS were included in the study. The FreeSurfer "Thalamic Kernel Segmentation" module and experience target coordinates were used for locating the CMT, and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) images were used to check the target. The patient's head was secured with a head clip, and electrode implantation was performed with the assistance of the neurosurgical robot Sinovation®. After opening the dura, the burr hole was continuously flushed with physiological saline to stop air from entering the skull. All procedures were performed under general anesthesia without intraoperative microelectrode recording (MER). RESULTS The mean age of the patients at surgery and onset of seizures was 22 years (range 11-41 years) and 11 years (range 1-21 years), respectively. The median duration of seizures before CMT-DBS surgery was 10 years (2-26 years). CMT was successfully segmented, and its position was verified by experience target coordinates and QSM images in all ten patients. The mean surgical time for bilateral CMT-DBS in this cohort was 165 ± 18 min. The mean pneumocephalus volume was 2 cm3. The median absolute errors in the x-, y-, and z-axes were 0.7 mm, 0.5 mm, and 0.9 mm, respectively. The median Euclidean distance (ED) and radial error (RE) was 1.3 ± 0.5 mm and 1.0 ± 0.3 mm, respectively. No significant difference was found between right- and left-sided electrodes regarding the RE nor the ED. After a mean 12-month follow-up, the average reduction in seizures was 61%, and six patients experienced a ≥ 50% reduction in seizures, including one patient who had no seizures after the operation. All patients tolerated the anesthesia operation, and no permanent or serious complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS Frameless robot-assisted asleep surgery is a precise and safe approach for placing CMT electrodes in patients with DRE, shortening the surgery time. The segmentation of the thalamic nuclei enables the precise location of the CMT, and the flow of physiological saline to seal the burr holes is a good way to reduce the influx of air. CMT-DBS is an effective method to reduce seizures.
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12
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Kalamatianos T, Mavrovounis G, Skouras P, Pandis D, Fountas K, Stranjalis G. Medial Pulvinar Stimulation in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: A Literature Review and a Hypothesis Based on Neuroanatomical Findings. Cureus 2023; 15:e35772. [PMID: 37025746 PMCID: PMC10071339 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
While bilateral stimulation of the anterior thalamic nuclei remains the only approved deep brain stimulation (DBS) option for focal epilepsy, two additional thalamic targets have been proposed. Earlier work indicated the potential of centromedian thalamic nucleus stimulation with recent findings highlighting the medial pulvinar nucleus. The latter has been shown to exhibit electrophysiological and imaging alterations in patients with partial status epilepticus and temporal lobe epilepsy. On this basis, recent studies have begun assessing the feasibility and efficacy of pulvinar stimulation, with encouraging results on the reduction of seizure frequency and severity. Building on existing neuroanatomical knowledge, indicating that the medial pulvinar is connected to the temporal lobe via the temporopulvinar bundle of Arnold, we hypothesize that this is one of the routes through which medial pulvinar stimulation affects temporal lobe structures. We suggest that further anatomic, imaging, and electrophysiologic studies are warranted to deepen our understanding of the subject and guide future clinical applications.
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13
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Arnts H, Coolen SE, Fernandes FW, Schuurman R, Krauss JK, Groenewegen HJ, van den Munckhof P. The intralaminar thalamus: a review of its role as a target in functional neurosurgery. Brain Commun 2023; 5:fcad003. [PMID: 37292456 PMCID: PMC10244065 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcad003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The intralaminar thalamus, in particular the centromedian-parafascicular complex, forms a strategic node between ascending information from the spinal cord and brainstem and forebrain circuitry that involves the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia. A large body of evidence shows that this functionally heterogeneous region regulates information transmission in different cortical circuits, and is involved in a variety of functions, including cognition, arousal, consciousness and processing of pain signals. Not surprisingly, the intralaminar thalamus has been a target area for (radio)surgical ablation and deep brain stimulation (DBS) in different neurological and psychiatric disorders. Historically, ablation and stimulation of the intralaminar thalamus have been explored in patients with pain, epilepsy and Tourette syndrome. Moreover, DBS has been used as an experimental treatment for disorders of consciousness and a variety of movement disorders. In this review, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the underlying mechanisms of stimulation and ablation of the intralaminar nuclei, historical clinical evidence, and more recent (experimental) studies in animals and humans to define the present and future role of the intralaminar thalamus as a target in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisse Arnts
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Stan E Coolen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rick Schuurman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joachim K Krauss
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Henk J Groenewegen
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pepijn van den Munckhof
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Deep brain stimulation of thalamic nuclei for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy: Are we confident with the precise surgical target? Seizure 2023; 105:22-28. [PMID: 36657225 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the thalamic nuclei for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) has been investigated for decades. In recent years, DBS targeting the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT) was approved by CE and FDA for the treatment of focal-onset DRE in light of the results from the multicentric randomized controlled SANTE trial. However, stereotactic targeting of thalamic nuclei is not straightforward because of the low contrast definition among thalamic nuclei on the current MRI sequences. When the FGATIR sequence is added to the preoperative MRI protocol, the mammillothalamic tract can be identified and used as a visible landmark to directly target ANT. According to the current evidence, the trans-ventricular trajectory allows the placement of stimulating contact into the nucleus more frequently than the trans-cortical trajectory. Another thalamic nucleus whose stimulation for the treatment of generalized DRE is receiving increasing attention is the centromedian nucleus (CM). CM-DBS seems to be particularly efficacious in patients suffering from Lennox-Gastault syndrome (LGS) and the recent monocentric randomized controlled ESTEL trial also described a beneficial "sweet-spot". However, CM targeting is still based on indirect stereotactic coordinates, since acquisition times and post-processing techniques of the actual MRI sequences are not applicable in clinical practice. Moreover, the results of the ESTEL trial await confirmation from similar studies accounting for epileptic syndromes other than LGS. Therefore, novel neuroimaging approaches are advisable to improve the surgical targeting of CM and potentially tailor the stimulation based on the patient's specific epileptic phenotype.
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15
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Alcala-Zermeno JL, Starnes K, Gregg NM, Worrell G, Lundstrom BN. Responsive neurostimulation with low-frequency stimulation. Epilepsia 2023; 64:e16-e22. [PMID: 36385467 PMCID: PMC9970035 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) use high-frequency stimulation (HFS) per the pivotal trials and manufacturer-recommended therapy protocols. However, not all patients respond to HFS. In this retrospective case series, 10 patients implanted with the RNS System were programmed with low-frequency stimulation (LFS) to treat their seizures; nine of these patients were previously treated with HFS (100 Hz or greater). LFS was defined as frequency < 10 Hz. Burst duration was increased to at least 1000 ms. With HFS, patients had a median seizure reduction (MSR) of 13% (interquartile range [IQR] = -67 to 54) after a median of 19 months (IQR = 8-49). In contrast, LFS was associated with a 67% MSR (IQR = 13-95) when compared to HFS and 76% MSR (IQR = 43-91) when compared to baseline prior to implantation. Charge delivered per hour and pulses per day were not significantly different between HFS and LFS, although time stimulated per day was longer for LFS (228 min) than for HFS (7 min). There were no LFS-specific adverse effects reported by any of the patients. LFS could represent an alternative, effective method for delivering stimulation in focal drug-resistant epilepsy patients treated with the RNS System.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Keith Starnes
- Department of Child and Adolescent Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Greg Worrell
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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16
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Kundu B, Arain A, Davis T, Charlebois CM, Rolston JD. Using chronic recordings from a closed-loop neurostimulation system to capture seizures across multiple thalamic nuclei. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2022; 10:136-143. [PMID: 36480536 PMCID: PMC9852392 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the case of a patient with unilateral diffuse frontotemporal epilepsy in whom we implanted a responsive neurostimulation system with leads spanning the anterior and centromedian nucleus of the thalamus. During chronic recording, ictal activity in the centromedian nucleus consistently preceded the anterior nucleus, implying a temporally organized seizure network involving the thalamus. With stimulation, the patient had resolution of focal impaired awareness seizures and secondarily generalized seizures. This report describes chronic recordings of seizure activity from multiple thalamic nuclei within a hemisphere and demonstrates the potential efficacy of closed-loop neurostimulation of multiple thalamic nuclei to control seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bornali Kundu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences CenterUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Amir Arain
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Tyler Davis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences CenterUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | | | - John D. Rolston
- Department of NeurosurgeryBrigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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17
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Alcala-Zermeno JL, Gregg NM, Starnes K, Mandrekar JN, Van Gompel JJ, Miller K, Worrell G, Lundstrom BN. Invasive neuromodulation for epilepsy: Comparison of multiple approaches from a single center. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 137:108951. [PMID: 36327647 PMCID: PMC9934010 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) patients not amenable to epilepsy surgery can benefit from neurostimulation. Few data compare different neuromodulation strategies. OBJECTIVE Compare five invasive neuromodulation strategies for the treatment of DRE: anterior thalamic nuclei deep brain stimulation (ANT-DBS), centromedian thalamic nuclei DBS (CM-DBS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), chronic subthreshold stimulation (CSS), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). METHODS Single center retrospective review and phone survey for patients implanted with invasive neuromodulation for 2004-2021. RESULTS N = 159 (ANT-DBS = 38, CM-DBS = 19, RNS = 30, CSS = 32, VNS = 40). Total median seizure reduction (MSR) was 61 % for the entire cohort (IQR 5-90) and in descending order: CSS (85 %), CM-DBS (63 %), ANT-DBS (52 %), RNS (50 %), and VNS (50 %); p = 0.07. The responder rate was 60 % after a median follow-up time of 26 months. Seizure severity, life satisfaction, and quality of sleep were improved. Cortical stimulation (RNS and CSS) was associated with improved seizure reduction compared to subcortical stimulation (ANT-DBS, CM-DBS, and VNS) (67 % vs. 52 %). Effectiveness was similar for focal epilepsy vs. generalized epilepsy, closed-loop vs. open-loop stimulation, pediatric vs. adult cases, and high frequency (>100 Hz) vs. low frequency (<100 Hz) stimulation settings. Delivered charge per hour varied widely across approaches but was not correlated with improved seizure reduction. CONCLUSIONS Multiple invasive neuromodulation approaches are available to treat DRE, but little evidence compares the approaches. This study used a uniform approach for single-center results and represents an effort to compare neuromodulation approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Luis Alcala-Zermeno
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Neurology, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 901 Walnut Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
| | - Nicholas M. Gregg
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Keith Starnes
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology, Department of Neurology, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Jayawant N. Mandrekar
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jamie J. Van Gompel
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Kai Miller
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Greg Worrell
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Brian N. Lundstrom
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
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18
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Dalic LJ, Warren AE, Malpas CB, Thevathasan W, Roten A, Bulluss KJ, Archer JS. Cognition, adaptive skills and epilepsy disability/severity in patients with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome undergoing deep brain stimulation for epilepsy in the ESTEL trial. Seizure 2022; 101:67-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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19
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Simpson HD, Schulze-Bonhage A, Cascino GD, Fisher RS, Jobst BC, Sperling MR, Lundstrom BN. Practical considerations in epilepsy neurostimulation. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2445-2460. [PMID: 35700144 PMCID: PMC9888395 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Neuromodulation is a key therapeutic tool for clinicians managing patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Multiple devices are available with long-term follow-up and real-world experience. The aim of this review is to give a practical summary of available neuromodulation techniques to guide the selection of modalities, focusing on patient selection for devices, common approaches and techniques for initiation of programming, and outpatient management issues. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (DBS-ANT), and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) are all supported by randomized controlled trials that show safety and a significant impact on seizure reduction, as well as a suggestion of reduction in the risk of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Significant seizure reductions are observed after 3 months for DBS, RNS, and VNS in randomized controlled trials, and efficacy appears to improve with time out to 7 to 10 years of follow-up for all modalities, albeit in uncontrolled follow-up or retrospective studies. A significant number of patients experience seizure-free intervals of 6 months or more with all three modalities. Number and location of epileptogenic foci are important factors affecting efficacy, and together with comorbidities such as severe mood or sleep disorders, may influence the choice of modality. Programming has evolved-DBS is typically initiated at lower current/voltage than used in the pivotal trial, whereas target charge density is lower with RNS, however generalizable optimal parameters are yet to be defined. Noninvasive brain stimulation is an emerging stimulation modality, although it is currently not used widely. In summary, clinical practice has evolved from those established in pivotal trials. Guidance is now available for clinicians who wish to expand their approach, and choice of neuromodulation technique may be tailored to individual patients based on their epilepsy characteristics, risk tolerance, and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh D. Simpson
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Gregory D. Cascino
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Robert S. Fisher
- Department of Neurology, Stanford Neuroscience Health Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Barbara C. Jobst
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, NH, USA
| | - Michael R. Sperling
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brian N. Lundstrom
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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20
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Zillgitt AJ, Haykal MA, Chehab A, Staudt MD. Centromedian thalamic neuromodulation for the treatment of idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:907716. [PMID: 35992953 PMCID: PMC9381751 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.907716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) is a common type of epilepsy and despite an increase in the number of available anti-seizure medications, approximately 20–30% of people with IGE continue to experience seizures despite adequate medication trials. Unlike focal epilepsy, resective surgery is not a viable treatment option for IGE; however, neuromodulation may be an effective surgical treatment for people with IGE. Thalamic stimulation through deep brain stimulation (DBS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) have been explored for the treatment of generalized and focal epilepsies. Although the data regarding DBS and RNS in IGE is limited to case reports and case series, the results of the published studies have been promising. The current manuscript will review the published literature of DBS and RNS within the centromedian nucleus of the thalamus for the treatment of IGE, as well as highlight an illustrative case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Zillgitt
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Health Adult Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Neuroscience Center, Royal Oak, MI, United States
| | - M. Ayman Haykal
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Health Adult Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Neuroscience Center, Royal Oak, MI, United States
| | - Ahmad Chehab
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beaumont Neuroscience Center, Royal Oak, MI, United States
| | - Michael D. Staudt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beaumont Neuroscience Center, Royal Oak, MI, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI, United States
- Michigan Head and Spine Institute, Southfield, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael D. Staudt,
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21
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Roa JA, Abramova M, Fields M, Vega-Talbott ML, Yoo J, Marcuse L, Wolf S, McGoldrick P, Ghatan S, Panov F. Responsive Neurostimulation of the Thalamus for the Treatment of Refractory Epilepsy. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:926337. [PMID: 35911594 PMCID: PMC9334749 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.926337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction One-third of patients with epilepsy continue to have seizures despite antiepileptic medications. Some of these refractory patients may not be candidates for surgical resection primarily because the seizure onset zones (SOZs) involve both hemispheres or are located in eloquent areas. The NeuroPace Responsive Neurostimulation System (RNS) is a closed-loop device that uses programmable detection and stimulation to tailor therapy to a patient's individual neurophysiology. Here, we present our single-center experience with the use of RNS in thalamic nuclei to provide long-term seizure control in patients with refractory epilepsy. Methods We performed a prospective single-center study of consecutive refractory epilepsy patients who underwent RNS system implantation in the anterior (ANT) and centromedian (CM) thalamic nuclei from September 2015 to December 2020. Patients were followed postoperatively to evaluate seizure freedom and complications. Results Twenty-three patients underwent placement of 36 RNS thalamic leads (CM = 27 leads, ANT = 9 leads). Mean age at implant was 18.8 ± 11.2 years (range 7.8–62 years-old). Two patients (8.7%) developed infections: 1 improved with antibiotic treatments alone, and 1 required removal with eventual replacement of the system to recover the therapeutic benefit. Mean time from RNS implantation to last follow-up was 22.3 months. Based on overall reduction of seizure frequency, 2 patients (8.7%) had no- to <25% improvement, 6 patients (26.1%) had 25–49% improvement, 14 patients (60.9%) had 50–99% improvement, and 1 patient (4.3%) became seizure-free. All patients reported significant improvement in seizure duration and severity, and 17 patients (74%) reported improved post-ictal state. There was a trend for subjects with SOZs located in the temporal lobe to achieve better outcomes after thalamic RNS compared to those with extratemporal SOZs. Of note, seizure etiology was syndromic in 12 cases (52.2%), and 7 patients (30.4%) had undergone resection/disconnection surgery prior to thalamic RNS therapy. Conclusion Thalamic RNS achieved ≥50% seizure control in ~65% of patients. Infections were the most common complication. This therapeutic modality may be particularly useful for patients affected by aggressive epilepsy syndromes since a young age, those whose seizure foci are located in the mesial temporal lobe, and those who have failed prior surgical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A. Roa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Marina Abramova
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Madeline Fields
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maite La Vega-Talbott
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jiyeoun Yoo
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lara Marcuse
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Steven Wolf
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Health Physicians, New York Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Patricia McGoldrick
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Health Physicians, New York Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Saadi Ghatan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Fedor Panov
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Fedor Panov
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22
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Ilyas A, Tandon N, Lhatoo SD. Thalamic neuromodulation for epilepsy: A clinical perspective. Epilepsy Res 2022; 183:106942. [PMID: 35580382 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Thalamic neuromodulation can be an effective therapeutic option for select patients with medically refractory epilepsy. However, successful outcome depends on several factors, beginning with appropriate patient and thalamic target selection. Among thalamic targets, the anterior (ANT) and centromedian (CeM) nuclei have the greatest clinical evidence for efficacy. However, the place of thalamic neuromodulation in the treatment armamentarium for intractable seizures is at the tail end of a long list of options. It's relative efficacy, if any, in relation to other treatment modalities however, can be inferred. As we will discuss, considerable work remains to be done in optimal targeting of thalamic nuclei, appropriate to the epilepsy syndrome and seizure type of the individual patient, which may change our current understanding of the place of thalamic neuromodulation on a range of treatment modality efficacies. Currently, it appears that ANT DBS is most efficacious for limbic epilepsies whereas CM, for generalized, multifocal (especially frontotemporal) epilepsies. Based on controlled studies, the efficacy of ANT and CeM DBS is roughly in line with other neuromodulatory therapies (i.e. RNS, VNS) when assessed within the cohort of patients for which the therapy is indicated. Much improvement is needed to render thalamic DBS more efficacious, and use of optimal targeting strategies, especially direct targeting, can positively affect outcomes. Thalamic neuromodulation is still in its infancy; however, clinical advances in this therapy are being realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeel Ilyas
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Texas Institute for Restorative Neurotechnologies, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Nitin Tandon
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Texas Institute for Restorative Neurotechnologies, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Samden D Lhatoo
- Texas Institute for Restorative Neurotechnologies, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
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23
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Surgical Treatment of Drug-Resistant Generalized Epilepsy. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2022; 22:459-465. [PMID: 35713776 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-022-01210-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize current evidence and recent developments in the surgical treatment of drug-resistant generalized epilepsy. RECENT FINDINGS Current surgical treatments of drug-resistant generalized epilepsy include vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS) and corpus callosotomy (CC). Neurostimulation with VNS and/or DBS has been shown to be effective in reducing seizure frequency in patients with generalized epilepsy. DBS for generalized epilepsy is primarily consisted of open-loop stimulation directed at the centromedian (CM) nucleus in the thalamus, though closed-loop stimulation and additional targets are being explored. CC can be effective in treating some seizure types and can be performed using traditional surgical techniques or with the less invasive methods of laser ablation and radiosurgery. This current literature supports the use of VNS, DBS and CC, alone or in combination, as palliative treatments of drug-resistant generalized epilepsy.
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Nowakowska M, Üçal M, Charalambous M, Bhatti SFM, Denison T, Meller S, Worrell GA, Potschka H, Volk HA. Neurostimulation as a Method of Treatment and a Preventive Measure in Canine Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: Current State and Future Prospects. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:889561. [PMID: 35782557 PMCID: PMC9244381 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.889561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulation of neuronal activity for seizure control using various methods of neurostimulation is a rapidly developing field in epileptology, especially in treatment of refractory epilepsy. Promising results in human clinical practice, such as diminished seizure burden, reduced incidence of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy, and improved quality of life has brought neurostimulation into the focus of veterinary medicine as a therapeutic option. This article provides a comprehensive review of available neurostimulation methods for seizure management in drug-resistant epilepsy in canine patients. Recent progress in non-invasive modalities, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation is highlighted. We further discuss potential future advances and their plausible application as means for preventing epileptogenesis in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Nowakowska
- Research Unit of Experimental Neurotraumatology, Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Muammer Üçal
- Research Unit of Experimental Neurotraumatology, Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Marios Charalambous
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Sofie F. M. Bhatti
- Small Animal Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Small Animal Teaching Hospital, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Timothy Denison
- Department of Engineering Science, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastian Meller
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | | | - Heidrun Potschka
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Holger A. Volk
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
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Agashe S, Burkholder D, Starnes K, Van Gompel JJ, Lundstrom BN, Worrell GA, Gregg NM. Centromedian Nucleus of the Thalamus Deep Brain Stimulation for Genetic Generalized Epilepsy: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:858413. [PMID: 35669200 PMCID: PMC9164300 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.858413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a paucity of treatment options for cognitively normal individuals with drug resistant genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE). Centromedian nucleus of the thalamus (CM) deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be a viable treatment for GGE. Here, we present the case of a 27-year-old cognitively normal woman with drug resistant GGE, with childhood onset. Seizure semiology are absence seizures and generalized onset tonic clonic (GTC) seizures. At baseline she had 4–8 GTC seizures per month and weekly absence seizures despite three antiseizure medications and vagus nerve stimulation. A multidisciplinary committee recommended off-label use of CM DBS in this patient. Over 12-months of CM DBS she had two GTC seizure days, which were in the setting of medication withdrawal and illness, and no GTC seizures in the last 6 months. There was no significant change in the burden of absence seizures. Presently, just two studies clearly document CM DBS in cognitively normal individuals with GGE or idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) [in contrast to studies of cognitively impaired individuals with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE)]. Our results suggest that CM DBS can be an effective treatment for cognitively normal individuals with GGE and underscore the need for prospective studies of CM DBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Agashe
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- *Correspondence: Shruti Agashe,
| | - David Burkholder
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Keith Starnes
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | | | | | - Nicholas M. Gregg
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- Nicholas M. Gregg,
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Middlebrooks EH, He X, Grewal SS, Keller SS. Neuroimaging and thalamic connectomics in epilepsy neuromodulation. Epilepsy Res 2022; 182:106916. [PMID: 35367691 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Neuromodulation is an increasingly utilized therapy for the treatment of people with drug-resistant epilepsy. To date, the most common and effective target has been the thalamus, which is known to play a key role in multiple forms of epilepsy. Neuroimaging has facilitated rapid developments in the understanding of functional targets, surgical and programming techniques, and the effects of thalamic stimulation. In this review, the role of neuroimaging in neuromodulation is explored. First, the structural and functional changes of the thalamus in common epilepsy syndromes are discussed as the rationale for neuromodulation of the thalamus. Next, methods for imaging different thalamic nuclei are presented, as well as rationale for the need of direct surgical targeting rather than reliance on traditional stereotactic coordinates. Lastly, we discuss the potential role of neuroimaging in assessing the effects of thalamic stimulation and as a potential biomarker for neuromodulation outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik H Middlebrooks
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
| | - Xiaosong He
- Department of Psychology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | | | - Simon S Keller
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, UK
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Gummadavelli A, Englot DJ, Schwalb JM, Wu C, Gonzalez-Martinez J, Niemat J, Gerrard JL. ASSFN Position Statement on Deep Brain Stimulation for Medication-Refractory Epilepsy. Neurosurgery 2022; 90:636-641. [PMID: 35271523 PMCID: PMC9514731 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000001923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromodulation has taken a foothold in the landscape of surgical treatment for medically refractory epilepsies and offers additional surgical treatment options for patients who are not candidates for resective/ablative surgery. Approximately one third of patients with epilepsy suffer with medication-refractory epilepsy. A persistent underuse of epilepsy surgery exists. Neuromodulation treatments including deep brain stimulation (DBS) expand the surgical options for patients with epilepsy and provide options for patients who are not candidates for resective surgery. DBS of the bilateral anterior nucleus of the thalamus is an Food and Drug Administration-approved, safe, and efficacious treatment option for patients with refractory focal epilepsy. The purpose of this consensus position statement is to summarize evidence, provide recommendations, and identify indications and populations for future investigation in DBS for epilepsy. The recommendations of the American Society of Functional and Stereotactic Neurosurgeons are based on several randomized and blinded clinical trials with high-quality data to support the use of DBS to the anterior nucleus of the thalamus for the treatment of refractory focal-onset seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijeet Gummadavelli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
| | - Dario J. Englot
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA;
| | - Jason M. Schwalb
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA;
| | - Chengyuan Wu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
| | - Jorge Gonzalez-Martinez
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;
| | - Joseph Niemat
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jason L. Gerrard
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
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28
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Ilyas A, Snyder KM, Pati S, Tandon N. Optimally Targeting the Centromedian Nucleus of the Thalamus for Generalized Epilepsy: A Meta-Analysis. Epilepsy Res 2022; 184:106954. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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29
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Sisterson ND, Kokkinos V, Urban A, Li N, Richardson RM. Responsive neurostimulation of the thalamus improves seizure control in idiopathic generalised epilepsy: initial case series. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2022; 93:491-498. [PMID: 35217517 PMCID: PMC9016239 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2021-327512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Up to 40% of patients with idiopathic generalised epilepsy (IGE) are drug resistant and potentially could benefit from intracranial neuromodulation of the seizure circuit. We present outcomes following 2 years of thalamic-responsive neurostimulation for IGE. METHODS Four patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy underwent RNS System implantation in the bilateral centromedian (CM) nucleus region. Electrophysiological data were extracted from the clinical patient data management system and analysed using a specialised platform (BRAINStim). Postoperative visualisation of electrode locations was performed using Lead-DBS. Seizure outcomes were reported using the Engel scale. RESULTS Patients experienced a 75%-99% reduction in seizure frequency with decreased seizure duration and severity (Engel class IB, IC, IIA and IIIA), as well as significant improvements in quality of life. Outcomes were durable through at least 2 years of therapy. Detection accuracy for all patients overall decreased over successive programming epochs from a mean of 96.5% to 88.3%. Most electrodes used to deliver stimulation were located in the CM (7/10) followed by the posterior dorsal ventral lateral (2/2), posterior ventral posterior lateral (3/4) and posterior ventral ventral lateral (2/3). In all patients, stimulation varied from 0.2 to 2.0 mA and amplitude only increased over successive epochs. The raw percentage of intracranial electroencephalography recordings with stimulations delivered to electrographic seizures was 24.8%, 1.2%, 7.6% and 8.8%. CONCLUSION Closed-loop stimulation of the CM region may provide significant improvement in seizure control and quality of life for patients with drug-resistant IGE. Optimal detection and stimulation locations and parameters remain an active area of investigation for accelerating and fine-tuning clinical responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel D Sisterson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vasileios Kokkinos
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexandra Urban
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ningfei Li
- Department of Neurology, Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - R Mark Richardson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA .,Department of Neurosurgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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30
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Abouelleil M, Deshpande N, Ali R. Emerging Trends in Neuromodulation for Treatment of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:839463. [PMID: 35386582 PMCID: PMC8977768 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.839463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects more than 70 million people globally. A considerable proportion of epilepsy is resistant to anti-epileptic drugs (AED). For patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), who are not eligible for resective or ablative surgery, neuromodulation has been a palliative option. Since the approval of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in 1997, expansion to include other modalities, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS), has led to improved seizure control in this population. In this article, we discuss the current updates and emerging trends on neuromodulation for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abouelleil
- Division of Neurological Surgery, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Nachiket Deshpande
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Rushna Ali
- Division of Neurological Surgery, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Rushna Ali
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31
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Khan M, Paktiawal J, Piper RJ, Chari A, Tisdall MM. Intracranial neuromodulation with deep brain stimulation and responsive neurostimulation in children with drug-resistant epilepsy: a systematic review. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2022; 29:208-217. [PMID: 34678764 DOI: 10.3171/2021.8.peds21201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In children with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), resective, ablative, and disconnective surgery may not be feasible or may fail. Neuromodulation in the form of deep brain stimulation (DBS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) may be viable treatment options, however evidence for their efficacies in children is currently limited. This systematic review aimed to summarize the literature on DBS and RNS for the treatment of DRE in the pediatric population. Specifically, the authors focused on currently available data for reported indications, neuromodulation targets, clinical efficacy, and safety outcomes. METHODS PRISMA guidelines were followed throughout this systematic review (PROSPERO no. CRD42020180669). Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, OpenGrey, and CINAHL Plus, were searched from their inception to February 19, 2021. Inclusion criteria were 1) studies with at least 1 pediatric patient (age < 19 years) who underwent DBS and/or RNS for DRE; and 2) retrospective, prospective, randomized, or nonrandomized controlled studies, case series, and case reports. Exclusion criteria were 1) letters, commentaries, conference abstracts, and reviews; and 2) studies without full text available. Risk of bias of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane ROBINS-I (Risk of Bias in Non-randomised Studies - of Interventions) tool. RESULTS A total of 35 studies were selected that identified 72 and 46 patients who underwent DBS and RNS, respectively (age range 4-18 years). Various epilepsy etiologies and seizure types were described in both cohorts. Overall, 75% of patients had seizure reduction > 50% after DBS (among whom 6 were seizure free) at a median (range) follow-up of 14 (1-100) months. In an exploratory univariate analysis of factors associated with favorable response, the follow-up duration was shorter in those patients with a favorable response (18 vs 33 months, p < 0.05). In the RNS cohort, 73.2% of patients had seizure reduction > 50% after RNS at a median (range) follow-up of 22 (5-39) months. On closer inspection, 83.3% of patients who had > 50% reduction in seizures actually had > 75% reduction, with 4 patients being seizure free. CONCLUSIONS Overall, both DBS and RNS showed favorable response rates, indicating that both techniques should be considered for pediatric patients with DRE. However, serious risks of overall bias were found in all included studies. Many research needs in this area would be addressed by conducting high-quality clinical trials and establishing an international registry of patients who have undergone pediatric neuromodulation, thereby ensuring robust prospective collection of predictive variables and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Khan
- 1University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Jaber Paktiawal
- 2Medical University Pleven, Pleven, Bulgaria
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Rory J Piper
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom; and
- 4Developmental Neuroscience, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aswin Chari
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom; and
- 4Developmental Neuroscience, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin M Tisdall
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom; and
- 4Developmental Neuroscience, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Vetkas A, Fomenko A, Germann J, Sarica C, Iorio-Morin C, Samuel N, Yamamoto K, Milano V, Cheyuo C, Zemmar A, Elias G, Boutet A, Loh A, Santyr B, Gwun D, Tasserie J, Kalia SK, Lozano AM. Deep brain stimulation targets in epilepsy: Systematic review and meta-analysis of anterior and centromedian thalamic nuclei and hippocampus. Epilepsia 2022; 63:513-524. [PMID: 34981509 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a neuromodulatory treatment used in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). The primary goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to describe recent advancements in the field of DBS for epilepsy, to compare the results of published trials, and to clarify the clinical utility of DBS in DRE. A systematic literature search was performed by two independent authors. Forty-four articles were included in the meta-analysis (23 for anterior thalamic nucleus [ANT], 8 for centromedian thalamic nucleus [CMT], and 13 for hippocampus) with a total of 527 patients. The mean seizure reduction after stimulation of the ANT, CMT, and hippocampus in our meta-analysis was 60.8%, 73.4%, and 67.8%, respectively. DBS is an effective and safe therapy in patients with DRE. Based on the results of randomized controlled trials and larger clinical series, the best evidence exists for DBS of the anterior thalamic nucleus. Further randomized trials are required to clarify the role of CMT and hippocampal stimulation. Our analysis suggests more efficient deep brain stimulation of ANT for focal seizures, wider use of CMT for generalized seizures, and hippocampal DBS for temporal lobe seizures. Factors associated with clinical outcome after DBS for epilepsy are electrode location, stimulation parameters, type of epilepsy, and longer time of stimulation. Recent advancements in anatomical targeting, functional neuroimaging, responsive neurostimulation, and sensing of local field potentials could potentially lead to improved outcomes after DBS for epilepsy and reduced sudden, unexpected death of patients with epilepsy. Biomarkers are needed for successful patient selection, targeting of electrodes and optimization of stimulation parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Vetkas
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Neurology Clinic, Department of Neurosurgery, Tartu University Hospital, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Anton Fomenko
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Section of Neurosurgery, Health Sciences Centre, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jürgen Germann
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Can Sarica
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christian Iorio-Morin
- Division of Neurosurgery, Centre de recherché du CHUS, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Nardin Samuel
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kazuaki Yamamoto
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Vanessa Milano
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cletus Cheyuo
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ajmal Zemmar
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Gavin Elias
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexandre Boutet
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aaron Loh
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brendan Santyr
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Dave Gwun
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jordy Tasserie
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Suneil K Kalia
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andres M Lozano
- Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Chen Y, Fallon N, Kreilkamp BAK, Denby C, Bracewell M, Das K, Pegg E, Mohanraj R, Marson AG, Keller SS. Probabilistic mapping of thalamic nuclei and thalamocortical functional connectivity in idiopathic generalised epilepsy. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 42:5648-5664. [PMID: 34432348 PMCID: PMC8559489 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well established that abnormal thalamocortical systems play an important role in the generation and maintenance of primary generalised seizures. However, it is currently unknown which thalamic nuclei and how nuclear‐specific thalamocortical functional connectivity are differentially impacted in patients with medically refractory and non‐refractory idiopathic generalised epilepsy (IGE). In the present study, we performed structural and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with refractory and non‐refractory IGE, segmented the thalamus into constituent nuclear regions using a probabilistic MRI segmentation method and determined thalamocortical functional connectivity using seed‐to‐voxel connectivity analyses. We report significant volume reduction of the left and right anterior thalamic nuclei only in patients with refractory IGE. Compared to healthy controls, patients with refractory and non‐refractory IGE had significant alterations of functional connectivity between the centromedian nucleus and cortex, but only patients with refractory IGE had altered cortical connectivity with the ventral lateral nuclear group. Patients with refractory IGE had significantly increased functional connectivity between the left and right ventral lateral posterior nuclei and cortical regions compared to patients with non‐refractory IGE. Cortical effects were predominantly located in the frontal lobe. Atrophy of the anterior thalamic nuclei and resting‐state functional hyperconnectivity between ventral lateral nuclei and cerebral cortex may be imaging markers of pharmacoresistance in patients with IGE. These structural and functional abnormalities fit well with the known importance of thalamocortical systems in the generation and maintenance of primary generalised seizures, and the increasing recognition of the importance of limbic pathways in IGE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yachin Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Nicholas Fallon
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Barbara A K Kreilkamp
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Neurology, University Medicine Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Martyn Bracewell
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK.,Schools of Medical Sciences and Psychology, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Kumar Das
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Emily Pegg
- Department of Neurology, Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK.,Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rajiv Mohanraj
- Department of Neurology, Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK.,Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Simon S Keller
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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Fasano A, Eliashiv D, Herman ST, Lundstrom BN, Polnerow D, Henderson JM, Fisher RS. Experience and consensus on stimulation of the anterior nucleus of thalamus for epilepsy. Epilepsia 2021; 62:2883-2898. [PMID: 34697794 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation of the anterior nuclei of thalamus (ANT-DBS) is effective for reduction of seizures, but little evidence is available to guide practitioners in the practical use of this therapy. In an attempt to fill this gap, a questionnaire with 37 questions was circulated to 578 clinicians who were either engaged in clinical trials of or known users of DBS for epilepsy, with responses from 141, of whom 58.2% were epileptologists and 28.4% neurosurgeons. Multiple regions of the world were represented. The survey found that the best candidates for DBS were considered those with temporal or frontal seizures, refractory to at least two medicines. Motivations for renewing therapy upon battery depletion were reduced convulsive, impaired awareness, and severe seizures and improved quality of life. Targeting of leads mainly was by magnetic resonance imaging, sometimes with intraoperative imaging or microelectrode recording. The majority used transventricular approaches. Stimulation parameters mostly imitated the SANTE study parameters, except for initial stimulation amplitudes in the 2-3-V or -mA range, versus 5 V in the SANTE study. Stimulation intensity was most often increased or reduced, respectively, for lack of efficacy or side effects, but changes in active contacts, cycle time, and pulse duration were also employed. Mood or memory problems or paresthesias were the side effects most responsible for adjustments. Off-label sites stimulated included centromedian thalamus, hippocampus, neocortex, and a few others. Several physicians used DBS in conjunction with vagus nerve stimulation or responsive neurostimulation, although our study did not track efficacy for combined use. Experienced users varied more from published parameters than did inexperienced users. In conclusion, surveys of experts can provide Class IV evidence for the most prevalent practical use of ANT-DBS. We present a flowchart for one protocol combining common practices. Controlled comparisons will be needed to choose the best approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfonso Fasano
- Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease, Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Center for Advancing Neurotechnological Innovation to Application, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dawn Eliashiv
- Department of Neurology, UCLA Seizure Disorders Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Susan T Herman
- Epilepsy Program, Department of Neurology at Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | | | | | - Jaimie M Henderson
- Department of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Robert S Fisher
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences and, by courtesy, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Guglielmi G, Eschbach KL, Alexander AL. Smaller Knife, Fewer Seizures? Recent Advances in Minimally Invasive Techniques in Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2021; 39:100913. [PMID: 34620456 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2021.100913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Children with drug-resistant epilepsy are at high risk for developmental delay, increased mortality, psychiatric comorbidities, and requiring assistance with activities of daily living. Despite the advent of new and effective pharmacologic therapies, about one in 5 children will develop drug-resistant epilepsy, and most of these children continue to have seizures despite trials of other medication. Epilepsy surgery is often a safe and effective option which may offer seizure freedom or at least a significant reduction in seizure burden in many children. However, despite published evidence of safety and efficacy, epilepsy surgery remains underutilized in the pediatric population. Patient and family fears about the risks of surgery may contribute to this gap. Less invasive surgical techniques may be more palatable to children with epilepsy and their caregivers. In this review, we present recent advances in minimally invasive techniques for the surgical treatment of epilepsy as well as intriguing possibilities for the future. We describe the indications for, benefits of, and limits to minimally-invasive techniques including Stereo-encephalography, laser interstitial thermal ablation, deep brain stimulation, focused ultrasound, stereo-encephalography-guided radiofrequency ablation, endoscopic disconnections, and responsive neurostimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Guglielmi
- Graduate Medical Education, Neurological Surgery Residency, Carle BroMenn Medical Center, Normal IL; Section of Pediatric Neurology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora CO; Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora CO; Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora CO; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora CO
| | - Krista L Eschbach
- Graduate Medical Education, Neurological Surgery Residency, Carle BroMenn Medical Center, Normal IL; Section of Pediatric Neurology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora CO; Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora CO; Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora CO; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora CO
| | - Allyson L Alexander
- Graduate Medical Education, Neurological Surgery Residency, Carle BroMenn Medical Center, Normal IL; Section of Pediatric Neurology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora CO; Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora CO; Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora CO; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora CO.
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Possible contribution of cerebellar disinhibition in epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 118:107944. [PMID: 33887658 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We hypothesize that loss of inhibition from the cerebellum can lead to cortical activation and seizures. BACKGROUND The traditional model for development of seizures purports that the source of seizures is increased electrical activity originating from cerebral cortical neurons. Studies have shown a decrease in inhibition results in a shift of cortical activity to a hyperexcitable state, which may lead to seizures. Interestingly, a 1978 study suggested the term "disorder of disinhibition" as a way to describe epilepsy from studies of chronic cerebellar stimulation. DESIGN/METHODS Cases and experimental studies in which cerebellar lesions have been implicated in the development of seizures were reviewed. Cases in which cerebellar inhibition has been targeted in the treatment of seizures were also included. Twenty-six studies and case reports are presented for this report. RESULTS The cases show cerebellar lesions can lead to cortical epileptiform activity. Purkinje cell loss is linked to the occurrence of seizures in animals. The majority of patients with cerebellar lesions were seizure free after complete resection, while less than half of patients were seizure free after partial resection. Novel treatments using deep-brain stimulation targeting cerebellar structures demonstrated therapeutic benefits for seizures. CONCLUSIONS Although pathophysiology is not well-understood, the cerebellum likely plays an inherent role in inhibiting aberrant cortical epileptogenesis. Cerebellar lesions may cause seizures due to loss of the inhibition of cortical areas or through intrinsic epileptic activity. Treatments enhancing cerebellar stimulation have shown therapeutic benefits in treating seizures, which could potentially provide another avenue for treatment.
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