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Kostov KH, Kostov H, Larsson PG, Henning O, Aaberg KM, Egge A, Peltola J, Lossius MI. Norwegian population-based study of effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:704-716. [PMID: 38318727 PMCID: PMC10984305 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12908] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluate the long-term efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) compared with epilepsy patients without intellectual disability (ID). METHODS Long-term outcomes from a Norwegian VNS quality registry are reported in 105 patients with DEEs (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome [LGS] n = 62; Dravet n = 16; Rett n = 9; other syndromes n = 18) were compared with 212 epilepsy patients without ID, with median follow-up of 88 and 72 months, respectively. Total seizure reduction was evaluated at 6, 12, 24, 36, and 60 months. Effect on different seizure types was evaluated at baseline and last observation carried forward (LOCF). RESULTS Median monthly seizure frequency at LOCF was reduced by 42.2% (p < 0.001) in patients with DEE and by 55.8% (p < 0.001) in patients without ID. In DEE patients, ≥50% seizure reduction at 6 and 24 months were 17.1% and 37.1%, respectively, and 33.5% and 48.6% for patients without ID. Seizure reduction ≥75% at 60 months occurred in 14.3% of DEE patients and 23.1% of patients without ID. Highest median reduction was for atonic seizures, most notably 64.6% for LGS patients. A better effect was seen at 2 years among DEE patients with unchanged medication compared with those with changed medication (54.5% vs. 35.6% responders, p = 0.078). More DEE patients were reported to have greater improvement in ictal or postictal severity (43.8% vs. 28.3%, p = 0.006) and alertness (62.9% vs. 31.6%, p < 0.001) than patients without ID. For both groups, use of the magnet reduced seizure severity. Hoarseness was the most common adverse effect in both groups. In addition, DEE patients were frequently reported to have sleep disturbance, general discomfort, or abdominal problems. SIGNIFICANCE Our data indicate that VNS is very effective for atonic seizures. Patients without ID had best overall seizure reduction, however, patients with DEE had higher retention rates probably due to other positive effects. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY DEE refers to a group of patients with severe epilepsy and intellectual disability. Many of these patients have restricted lifestyles with frequent seizures. VNS is a treatment option for patients who do not respond well to medicines, either because of insufficient effect or serious adverse effects. Our study shows that VNS is well tolerated in this patient group and leads to a reduction in all seizure types, most notably for seizures leading to fall. Many patients experience other positive effects like shorter and milder seizures, as well as improvement in alertness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin H. Kostov
- Neurological Department, National Center for EpilepsyOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
| | - Hrisimir Kostov
- Neurophysiological Department, National Center for EpilepsyOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
| | | | - Oliver Henning
- Neurophysiological Department, National Center for EpilepsyOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
| | - Kari Modalsli Aaberg
- Pediatric Department, National Center for EpilepsyOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
| | - Arild Egge
- Neurosurgical DepartmentOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
| | - Jukka Peltola
- Department of NeurologyTampere University and Tampere University HospitalTampereFinland
| | - Morten Ingvar Lossius
- Neurological Department, National Center for EpilepsyOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
- Department for Clinical MedicineInstitute for Clinical Medicine, University of OsloOsloNorway
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Geng G, Hu W, Meng Y, Zhang H, Zhang H, Chen C, Zhang Y, Gao Z, Liu Y, Shi J. Vagus nerve stimulation for treating developmental and epileptic encephalopathy in young children. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1191831. [PMID: 37928141 PMCID: PMC10624125 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1191831] [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: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the clinical variables that might predict the outcome of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) after vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy and identify the risk factors for poor long-term outcome. Patients and methods We retrospectively studied 32 consecutive children with drug-resistant DEE who had undergone VNS surgery from April 2019 to July 2021, which were not suitable for corpus callosotomy. In spite of combining valproic acid, levetiracetam, lamotrigine, topiramate, etc. (standard anti-seizure medicine available in China) it has not been possible to effectively reduce seizures in the population we investigate (Cannabidiol and brivaracetam were not available in China). A responder was defined as a frequency reduction decrease > 50%. Seizure freedom was defined as freedom from seizures for at least 6 months. Sex, electroencephalograph (EEG) group, neurodevelopment, time lag, gene mutation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and epilepsy syndrome were analyzed with Fisher's exact test, The age at onset and age at VNS therapy were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis test, statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. And used the effect size to correction. Results Among the 32 patients, the median age at VNS implantation was 4.7 years (range: 1-12 years). At the most recent follow-up, five children (15.6%) were seizure-free and 22 (68.8%) were responders. Univariate analysis demonstrated that the responders were significantly associated with mild development delay/intellectual disability (p = 0.044; phi coefficient = 0.357) and a multifocal EEG pattern (p = 0.022; phi coefficient = -0.405). Kaplan-Meier survival analyses demonstrated that a multifocal EEG pattern (p = 0.049) and DEE without epileptic spasm (ES) (p = 0.012) were statistically significant (p = 0.030). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that DEE with ES had significant predictive value for poor long-term outcome (p = 0.014, hazard ratio = 5.433, confidence interval = 1.402-21.058). Conclusions Our study suggested that VNS was a generally effective adjunct treatment for DEE. Although the predictive factors for VNS efficacy remain unclear, it should be emphasized that patients with ES are not suitable candidates for epilepsy surgery. Further investigations are needed to validate the present results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guifu Geng
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wandong Hu
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yao Meng
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hongwei Zhang
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chuanmei Chen
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanqing Zhang
- Pediatric Health Care Institute, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zaifen Gao
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jianguo Shi
- Department of Epilepsy Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan Children's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Möbius H, Welkoborsky HJ. Vagus nerve stimulation for conservative therapy-refractive epilepsy and depression. Laryngorhinootologie 2022; 101:S114-S143. [PMID: 35605616 DOI: 10.1055/a-1660-5591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies confirm that the vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an efficient, indirect neuromodulatory therapy with electrically induced current for epilepsy that cannot be treated by epilepsy surgery and is therapy-refractory and for drug therapy-refractory depression. VNS is an established, evidence-based and in the long-term cost-effective therapy in an interdisciplinary overall concept.Long-term data on the safety and tolerance of the method are available despite the heterogeneity of the patient populations. Stimulation-related side effects like hoarseness, paresthesia, cough or dyspnea depend on the stimulation strength and often decrease with continuing therapy duration in the following years. Stimulation-related side effects of VNS can be well influenced by modifying the stimulation parameters. Overall, the invasive vagus nerve stimulation may be considered as a safe and well-tolerated therapy option.For invasive and transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, antiepileptic and antidepressant as well as positive cognitive effects could be proven. In contrast to drugs, VNS has no negative effect on cognition. In many cases, an improvement of the quality of life is possible.iVNS therapy has a low probability of complete seizure-freedom in cases of focal and genetically generalized epilepsy. It must be considered as palliative therapy, which means that it does not lead to healing and requires the continuation of specific medication. The functional principle is a general reduction of the neuronal excitability. This effect is achieved by a slow increase of the effectiveness sometimes over several years. Responders are those patients who experience a 50% reduction of the seizure incidence. Some studies even reveal seizure-freedom in 20% of the cases. Currently, it is not possible to differentiate between potential responders and non-responders before therapy/implantation.The current technical developments of the iVNS generators of the new generation like closed-loop system (cardiac-based seizure detection, CBSD) reduce also the risk for SUDEP (sudden unexpected death in epilepsy patients), a very rare, lethal complication of epilepsies, beside the seizure severity.iVNS may deteriorate an existing sleep apnea syndrome and therefore requires possible therapy interruption during nighttime (day-night programming or magnet use) beside the close cooperation with sleep physicians.The evaluation of the numerous iVNS trials of the past two decades showed multiple positive effects on other immunological, cardiological, and gastroenterological diseases so that additional therapy indications may be expected depending on future study results. Currently, the vagus nerve stimulation is in the focus of research in the disciplines of psychology, immunology, cardiology as well as pain and plasticity research with the desired potential of future medical application.Beside invasive vagus nerve stimulation with implantation of an IPG and an electrode, also devices for transdermal and thus non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation have been developed during the last years. According to the data that are currently available, they are less effective with regard to the reduction of the seizure severity and duration in cases of therapy-refractory epilepsy and slightly less effective regarding the improvement of depression symptoms. In this context, studies are missing that confirm high evidence of effectiveness. The same is true for the other indications that have been mentioned like tinnitus, cephalgia, gastrointestinal complaints etc. Another disadvantage of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation is that the stimulators have to be applied actively by the patients and are not permanently active, in contrast to implanted iVNS therapy systems. So they are only intermittently active; furthermore, the therapy adherence is uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Möbius
- Klinik für HNO-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Halschirurgie, KRH Klinikum Nordstadt, Hannover.,Abt. für HNO-Heilkunde, Kinderkrankenhaus auf der Bult, Hannover
| | - H J Welkoborsky
- Klinik für HNO-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Halschirurgie, KRH Klinikum Nordstadt, Hannover.,Abt. für HNO-Heilkunde, Kinderkrankenhaus auf der Bult, Hannover
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Aniwattanapong D, List JJ, Ramakrishnan N, Bhatti GS, Jorge R. Effect of Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Attention and Working Memory in Neuropsychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review. Neuromodulation 2022; 25:343-355. [PMID: 35088719 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been suggested that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) may enhance attention and working memory. The neuromodulator effects of VNS are thought to activate the release of neurotransmitters involving cognition and to promote neuronal plasticity. Therefore, VNS has been studied for its effects on attention and working memory impairment in neuropsychiatric disorders. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the effects of VNS on attention and working memory among patients with neuropsychiatric disorders, examine stimulation parameters, provide mechanistic hypotheses, and propose future studies using VNS. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a systematic review using electronic databases MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Cochrane library, and PsycINFO (Ovid). Narrative analysis was used to describe the therapeutic effects of VNS on attention and working memory, describe stimulation parameters, and propose explanatory mechanisms. RESULTS We identified 20 studies reporting VNS effects on attention and working memory in patients with epilepsy or mood disorders. For epilepsy, there was one randomized controlled trial from all 18 studies. It demonstrated no statistically significant differences in the cognitive tasks between active and control VNS. From a within-subject experimental design, significant improvement of working memory after VNS was demonstrated. One of three nonrandomized controlled trials found significantly improved attentional performance after VNS. The cohort studies compared VNS and surgery and found attentional improvement in both groups. Nine of 12 pretest-posttest studies showed improvement of attention or working memory after VNS. For mood disorders, although one study showed significant improvement of attention following VNS, the other did not. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests that, although we identified some positive results from eligible studies, there is insufficient good-quality evidence to establish VNS as an effective intervention to enhance attention and working memory in persons with neuropsychiatric disorders. Further studies assessing the efficacy of such intervention are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daruj Aniwattanapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Chulalongkorn Cognitive, Clinical & Computational Neuroscience Lab, Chula Neuroscience Center, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Justine J List
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Mental Health Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nithya Ramakrishnan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Mental Health Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gursimrat S Bhatti
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Mental Health Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ricardo Jorge
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Mental Health Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Touma L, Dansereau B, Chan AY, Jetté N, Kwon CS, Braun KPJ, Friedman D, Jehi L, Rolston JD, Vadera S, Wong-Kisiel LC, Englot DJ, Keezer MR. Neurostimulation in People with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis from the ILAE Surgical Therapies Commission. Epilepsia 2022; 63:1314-1329. [PMID: 35352349 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Summarize the current evidence on efficacy and tolerability of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS) through a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS We followed the PRISMA reporting standards and searched Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. We included published randomized controlled trials (RCT) and their corresponding open-label extension studies, as well as prospective case series, with ≥ 20 participants (excluding studies limited to children). Our primary outcome was the mean (or median when unavailable) percentage decrease in frequency, as compared to baseline, of all epileptic seizures at last follow-up. Secondary outcomes included proportion of treatment responders and proportion with seizure freedom. RESULTS We identified 30 eligible studies, six of which were RCTs. At long-term follow-up (mean 1.3 years), five observational studies for VNS reported a pooled mean percentage decrease in seizure frequency of 34.7% (95% CI: -5.1, 74.5). In the open-label extension studies for RNS, the median seizure reduction was 53%, 66%, and 75% at two, five, and nine years of follow-up, respectively. For DBS, the median reduction was 56%, 65%, and 75% at two, five, and seven years, respectively. The proportion of individuals with seizure freedom at last follow-up increased significantly over time for DBS and RNS while a positive trend was observed for VNS. Quality of life was improved in all modalities. The most common complications included hoarseness, cough and throat pain for VNS and implant site pain, headache, and dysesthesia for DBS and RNS. SIGNIFICANCE Neurostimulation modalities are an effective treatment option for drug resistant epilepsy, with improving outcomes over time and few major complications. Seizure reduction rates among the three therapies were similar during the initial blinded phase. Recent long-term follow-up studies are encouraging for RNS and DBS but are lacking for VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lahoud Touma
- Research Centre of the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Bénédicte Dansereau
- Research Centre of the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Alvin Y Chan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Orange, CA, USA
| | - Nathalie Jetté
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Churl-Su Kwon
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Kees P J Braun
- Department of Child Neurology, University Medical Center Utrecht, member of ERN EpiCARE, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Daniel Friedman
- Department of Neurology, New York University Langone Health, NY, USA
| | - Lara Jehi
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - John D Rolston
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sumeet Vadera
- Department of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Orange, CA, USA
| | | | - Dario J Englot
- Departments of Neurological Surgery, Neurology, Radiological, Electrical Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mark R Keezer
- Research Centre of the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Honorary Researcher, Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands.,School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Rotondo E, Riva A, Graziosi A, Pellegrino N, Di Battista C, Di Stefano V, Striano P. Non-pharmacological treatments for pediatric refractory epilepsies. Expert Rev Neurother 2022; 22:337-349. [PMID: 35320056 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2022.2057847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antiseizure medications (ASMs) are the primary treatment option for epilepsies of wide etiologies, however, about 10-20% of children do not gain sustained seizure control and in this case, it is worth investigating "alternative" therapeutic approaches aside from ASMs. Nowadays, non-pharmacological strategies for epilepsy treatment encompass dietary interventions, neurostimulation-based techniques, and biobehavioral approaches. AREAS COVERED A search on PubMed database was conducted. Experimental and clinical studies, as well as meta-analysis and structured reviews on the latest non-pharmacological treatments for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in children, were included. Special attention is given to the efficacy and tolerability outcomes, trying to infer the role novel approaches may have in the future. EXPERT OPINION The large heterogeneity of primary clinical outcomes and the unavoidable subjective response of each patient to treatments prevents Researchers from the identification of a single, reliable, approach to treat DRE. The understanding of fine pathophysiologic processes is giving the way to the use of alternative therapies, such as the well-known ketogenic diet, in a "personalized" view of treatment. The goal is to apply the non-pharmacological treatment most suitable for the patient's sake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Rotondo
- Division of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Ciri Hospital, ASL TO4, Ciri, Torino, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Paeditric Neurology and Muscular Disease Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Graziosi
- Department of Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. D'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - Noemi Pellegrino
- Department of Neonatology, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and advanced Diagnostic (BIND), University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Paeditric Neurology and Muscular Disease Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
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Batson S, Shankar R, Conry J, Boggs J, Radtke R, Mitchell S, Barion F, Murphy J, Danielson V. Efficacy and safety of VNS therapy or continued medication management for treatment of adults with drug-resistant epilepsy: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol 2022; 269:2874-2891. [PMID: 35034187 PMCID: PMC9119900 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-10967-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) Therapy® is an adjunctive neurostimulation treatment for people with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) who are unwilling to undergo resective surgery, have had unsuccessful surgery or are unsuitable for surgery. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the treatment effects of VNS Therapy as an adjunct to anti-seizure medications (ASMs) for the management of adults with DRE. A literature search was performed in August 2020 of the Medline®, Medline® Epub Ahead of Print, Embase, and the Cochrane library databases. Outcomes examined included reduction in seizure frequency, seizure freedom, ASM load, discontinuations, and serious adverse events (SAEs). Comparators included best medical practice, ASMs, low-stimulation or sham VNS Therapy. Four RCTs and six comparative observational studies were identified for inclusion. Against comparators, individuals treated with VNS had a significantly better odds of experiencing a ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency (OR: 2.27 [95% CI 1.47, 3.51]; p = 0.0002), a ≥ 75% reduction in seizure frequency (OR: 3.56 [95% CI 1.59, 7.98]; p = 0.002) and a reduced risk for increased ASM load (risk ratio: 0.36 [95% CI 0.21, 0.62]; p = 0.0002). There was no difference in the odds of discontinuation or the rate of SAEs between VNS versus comparators. This meta-analysis demonstrated the benefits of VNS Therapy in people with DRE, which included improvement in seizure frequency without an increase in the rate of SAEs or discontinuations, thereby supporting the consideration of VNS Therapy for people who are not responding to ASMs and those unsuitable or unwilling to undergo surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Batson
- Sarah Batson, Mtech Access Limited, 30 Murdock Road, Bicester, OX26 4PP, Oxfordshire, England.
| | - Rohit Shankar
- Neuropsychiatry, Peninsula School of Medicine, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, England
| | - Joan Conry
- Children's National, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jane Boggs
- Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | - Stephen Mitchell
- Sarah Batson, Mtech Access Limited, 30 Murdock Road, Bicester, OX26 4PP, Oxfordshire, England
| | - Francesca Barion
- Pricing, Health Economics, Market Access and Reimbursement (PHEMAR), LivaNova, London, England
| | - Joanna Murphy
- Pricing, Health Economics, Market Access and Reimbursement (PHEMAR), LivaNova, London, England
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Muthiah N, Akwayena E, Vodovotz L, Sharma N, Jeong JH, White GE, Abel TJ. Comparison of traditional and closed loop vagus nerve stimulation for treatment of pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy: A propensity-matched retrospective cohort study. Seizure 2022; 94:74-81. [PMID: 34872020 PMCID: PMC11423706 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE For epilepsy patients with drug-resistant, unresectable epilepsy, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an option for seizure control. Approximately 40-70% of patients will achieve ≥50% seizure reduction with VNS. New closed loop VNS models detect ictal tachycardia and responsively stimulate the vagus nerve. The effectiveness of closed loop VNS compared to traditional VNS for pediatric epilepsy is unknown. METHODS An 11-year retrospective electronic medical record review at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh was performed. Patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who underwent VNS implantation were included. Patients were divided into groups based on VNS model: traditional versus closed loop. Those who transitioned from traditional to closed loop VNS were excluded. Given potential for selection bias, propensity scores matching was utilized to compare traditional to closed loop VNS patients. Patients with focal versus generalized epilepsy were also separately analyzed. The primary outcome was "VNS response", defined as at least 50% seizure frequency reduction from baseline. RESULTS A total of 320 patients were included in this sample. The percentage of matched patients (total n = 220: n = 179 traditional VNS, n = 41 closed loop VNS) who responded to VNS after one year of therapy was 43% for traditional VNS and 39% for closed loop VNS (p = 0.64). After two years of therapy, a higher proportion of closed loop VNS patients than traditional VNS patients responded to VNS among all subgroups, though no differences were statistically significant (p>0.05). Notably, for those with generalized epilepsy, 73% of closed loop patients responded to VNS compared to only 46% of traditional patients (p = 0.10). After two years of VNS therapy, patients were taking approximately the same quantity of antiseizure medications as baseline (change of +0.074 +/- 0.90 ) with no difference between VNS models (p = 0.87). SIGNIFICANCE Among pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, closed loop VNS trends towards a higher rate of VNS response after two years of treatment, especially among generalized epilepsy patients. Neither model of VNS allows patients to reduce antiseizure medication quantity after two years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nallammai Muthiah
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Emefa Akwayena
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lena Vodovotz
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nikhil Sharma
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jong-Hyeon Jeong
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gretchen E White
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Taylor J Abel
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Mao H, Chen Y, Ge Q, Ye L, Cheng H. Short- and Long-Term Response of Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy in Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Neuromodulation 2021; 25:327-342. [PMID: 35396068 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the short- and long-term efficacies as well as tolerability of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for the patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in comparison with status at baseline. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a specific and systematic search in online data bases for relevant literature published prior to December 2020. The literature retrieved, including randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies, were then reviewed, and analyzed. A fixed-effect model was used to evaluate the pooled odds ratio (OR) of responder rates and complications associated with RCTs. A random-effect model was used to generate overall responder rates and overall incidences of complication. RESULTS A total of 61 studies, featuring 5223 patients, were included in our study. The pooled ORs of responder rates, hoarseness/voice change, throat pain, coughing, dyspnea, paresthesia, muscle pain, and headache during the short-term phase were 2.195 (p = 0.001), 5.527 (p = 0.0001), 0.935 (p = 0.883), 1.119 (p = 0.655), 2.901 (p = 0.005), 1.775 (p = 0.061), 3.606 (p = 0.123), and 0.928 (p = 0.806), respectively. The overall responder rates in 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months postoperatively were 0.421, 0.455, 0.401, 0.451, 0.482, 0.502, and 0.508, respectively. The overall incidences of complication were 0.274 for hoarseness/voice change, 0.099 for throat pain, 0.133 for coughing, 0.099 for dyspnea, 0.102 for paresthesia, 0.062 for muscle pain, 0.101 for headache, 0.015 for dysphagia, 0.013 for neck pain, 0.040 for infection, 0.030 for lead fracture, 0.019 for vocal cord palsy, and 0.020 for device malfunction, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The estimating of efficacy and tolerability, using data from the existing literature, indicated VNS therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with DRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongliang Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yonghao Chen
- First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qintao Ge
- First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lei Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongwei Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Toffa DH, Touma L, El Meskine T, Bouthillier A, Nguyen DK. Learnings from 30 years of reported efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for epilepsy treatment: A critical review. Seizure 2020; 83:104-123. [PMID: 33120323 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Three decades after its introduction as an adjuvant therapeutic option in the management of selective drug-resistant epilepsy cases (DRE), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) retains growing interest. An implantable device was first approved for epilepsy in Europe in 1994 and in the United States (US) in 1997. Subsequent modifications improved the safety and the efficacy of the system. The most recent application of vagal neurostimulation is represented by transcutaneous devices that are claimed to have strong therapeutic potential. In this review, we sought to analyze the most meaningful available data describing the indications, safety and efficacy of the different approaches of VNS in clinical practice. Therefore, we identified studies reporting VNS efficacy and/or safety in epilepsy and its comorbidities from January 1990 to February 2020 from various databases including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, US government databases and VNS manufacturer published resources. In general, VNS efficacy becomes optimal around the sixth month of treatment and a 50-100 % seizure frequency reduction is achieved in approximately 45-65 % of the patients. However, some clinically relevant differences have been reported with specific factors such as epilepsy etiology or type, patient age as well as the delay of VNS therapy onset. VNS efficacy on seizure frequency has been demonstrated in both children and adults, in lesional and non-lesional cases, in focal and generalized epilepsies, on both seizures and epilepsy comorbidities. Regarding the latter, VNS can lead to an improvement of about 25-35 % in depression scores, 35 % in anxiety scores and 25 % in mood assessment scores. If non-invasive devices are undeniably safer, their efficacy is limited due to the scarcity of large cohort studies and the disparity of methodological approaches (study design and stimulation parameters). Overall, we believe that there is a progress margin for improving the safety of implantable devices and, above all, the effectiveness of the various VNS approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dènahin Hinnoutondji Toffa
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada; CHUM Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Lahoud Touma
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Alain Bouthillier
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Dang Khoa Nguyen
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada; CHUM Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
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11
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Pipan E, Apostolou A, Bograkou M, Brooks P, Vigren P, Gauffin H. Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Epilepsy: Experiences of Participants with Cognitive Deficits. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:1181-1188. [PMID: 32440133 PMCID: PMC7217302 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s241716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to examine patients' experiences of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) with a special interest in patients with cognitive deficit (CD). MATERIALS AND METHODS An open, retrospective study was conducted on 82 patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy, who were treated with VNS for at least 10 months. Based on the inability to live independently, they were divided into two groups: patients with cognitive deficit (CD group) and patients without cognitive deficit (non-CD group). A specially designed questionnaire was used for semi-structured interviews about patients' experiences of VNS treatment. RESULTS Approximately one-third described a continuous reduction of seizure frequency of 50% or more and were regarded as responders. Fewer subjects in the CD group were responders than in the non-CD group. Approximately one-third of all subjects had no positive effect of VNS treatment. More CD patients described additional improvements and the most common were milder seizures and improved alertness. The most commonly reported adverse effect was hoarseness. DISCUSSION VNS treatment in patients without CD had better effect on seizure frequency reduction than in patients with CD, but many patients with CD reported other benefits from the treatment. CONCLUSION Non-CD patients had higher seizure frequency reduction than CD patients during VNS treatment, but many CD patients described other benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Pipan
- University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alexandros Apostolou
- Department of Neurology and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Maria Bograkou
- Department of Neurology and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Petra Brooks
- Department of Neurology and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Patrick Vigren
- Department of Neurology and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Helena Gauffin
- Department of Neurology and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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12
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González HFJ, Yengo-Kahn A, Englot DJ. Vagus Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Epilepsy. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2019; 30:219-230. [PMID: 30898273 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) was the first neuromodulation device approved for treatment of epilepsy. In more than 20 years of study, VNS has consistently demonstrated efficacy in treating epilepsy. After 2 years, approximately 50% of patients experience at least 50% reduced seizure frequency. Adverse events with VNS treatment are rare and include surgical adverse events (including infection, vocal cord paresis, and so forth) and stimulation side effects (hoarseness, voice change, and cough). Future developments in VNS, including closed-loop and noninvasive stimulation, may reduce side effects or increase efficacy of VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernán F J González
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1500 21st Avenue South, 4340 Village at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN 37232-8618, USA; Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1500 21st Avenue South, 4340 Village at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN 37232-8618, USA.
| | - Aaron Yengo-Kahn
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1121 21st Avenue South, Medical Center North, T4224, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Dario J Englot
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1500 21st Avenue South, 4340 Village at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN 37232-8618, USA; Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1500 21st Avenue South, 4340 Village at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN 37232-8618, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1500 21st Avenue South, 4340 Village at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN 37232-8618, USA; Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1500 21st Avenue South, 4340 Village at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN 37232-8618, USA
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13
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Neurostimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy: a systematic review of clinical evidence for efficacy, safety, contraindications and predictors for response. Curr Opin Neurol 2018; 31:198-210. [DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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14
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Trezza A, Landi A, Grioni D, Pirillo D, Fiori L, Giussani C, Sganzerla EP. Adverse Effects and Surgical Complications in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Vagal Nerve Stimulation for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy. ACTA NEUROCHIRURGICA. SUPPLEMENT 2017; 124:43-47. [PMID: 28120051 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-39546-3_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) is an effective treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy that is not suitable for resective surgery, both in adults and in children. Few reports describe the adverse effects and complications of VNS. The aim of our study was to present a series of 33 pediatric patients who underwent VNS for drug-resistant epilepsy and to discuss the adverse effects and complications through a review of the literature.The adverse effects of VNS are usually transient and are dependent on stimulation of the vagus and its efferent fibers; surgical complications of the procedure may be challenging and patients sometimes require further surgery; generally these complications affect VNS efficacy; in addition, hardware complications also have to be taken into account.In our experience and according to the literature, adverse effects and surgical and hardware complications are uncommon and can usually be managed definitely. Careful selection of patients, particularly from a respiratory and cardiac point of view, has to be done before surgery to limit the incidence of some adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Trezza
- Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Milan Center for Neuroscience, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano Bicocca, via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza, Italy.
| | - A Landi
- Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Milan Center for Neuroscience, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano Bicocca, via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - D Grioni
- Unit of Pediatric Neurophysiology, Child Neuropsychiatric Clinic, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano Bicocca, via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - D Pirillo
- Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Milan Center for Neuroscience, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano Bicocca, via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - L Fiori
- Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Milan Center for Neuroscience, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano Bicocca, via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - C Giussani
- Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Milan Center for Neuroscience, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano Bicocca, via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - E P Sganzerla
- Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Milan Center for Neuroscience, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano Bicocca, via Pergolesi 33, 20900, Monza, Italy
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15
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Révész D, Rydenhag B, Ben-Menachem E. Complications and safety of vagus nerve stimulation: 25 years of experience at a single center. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2016; 18:97-104. [PMID: 27015521 DOI: 10.3171/2016.1.peds15534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this paper was to investigate surgical and hardware complications in a longitudinal retrospective study. METHODS The authors of this registry study analyzed the surgical and hardware complications in 247 patients who underwent the implantation of a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device between 1990 and 2014. The mean follow-up time was 12 years. RESULTS In total, 497 procedures were performed for 247 primary VNS implantations. Complications related to surgery occurred in 8.6% of all implantation procedures that were performed. The respective rate for hardware complications was 3.7%. Surgical complications included postoperative hematoma in 1.9%, infection in 2.6%, vocal cord palsy in 1.4%, lower facial weakness in 0.2%, pain and sensory-related complications in 1.4%, aseptic reaction in 0.2%, cable discomfort in 0.2%, surgical cable break in 0.2%, oversized stimulator pocket in 0.2%, and battery displacement in 0.2% of patients. Hardware-related complications included lead fracture/malfunction in 3.0%, spontaneous VNS turn-on in 0.2%, and lead disconnection in 0.2% of patients. CONCLUSIONS VNS implantation is a relatively safe procedure, but it still involves certain risks. The most common complications are postoperative hematoma, infection, and vocal cord palsy. Although their occurrence rates are rather low at about 2%, these complications may cause major suffering and even be life threatening. To reduce complications, it is important to have a long-term perspective. The 25 years of follow-up of this study is of great strength considering that VNS can be a life-long treatment for many patients. Thus, it is important to include repeated surgeries such as battery and lead replacements, given that complications also may occur with these surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Révész
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg; and.,Departments of 2 Neurosurgery and
| | - Bertil Rydenhag
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg; and.,Departments of 2 Neurosurgery and
| | - Elinor Ben-Menachem
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg; and.,Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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16
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Wang TT, Zhou D. Non-invasive treatment options for focal cortical dysplasia. Exp Ther Med 2016; 11:1537-1541. [PMID: 27168769 PMCID: PMC4840718 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) presents a strong clinical challenge especially for the treatment of the associated epilepsy. Epilepsy in FCD is often treatment-resistant and constitutes 50% of treatment-resistant cases. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have been widely used in the treatment of FCD. However, evidence to suggest their specific effect on the treatment of FCD remains to be established. In view of this resistance, several alternative treatments have been suggested. Although treatment currently involves surgical management, non-invasive treatments have been identified. The aim of the present review, was to assess non-invasive management strategies including, i) mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors, ii) ketogenic diet (KD), and iii) vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). In addition, we discussed the literature available regarding the use of AEDs in FCD. Experiments conducted with mammals detailing rapamycin gene mutations in FCD have produced vital information for exploring treatment options using mTOR inhibitors. Of note is the importance of KD in children with FCD. This diet has been shown to modify disease progression by attenuating chromatin modification, a master regulator for gene expression and functional adaptation of the cell. FCD has also been studied widely with neurostimulation techniques. The outcomes of these techniques have been found to be variable. For widespread dysplasias, VNS has been shown to produce responder rates of >50%. Nevertheless, non-invasive cranial nerve stimulation techniques such as transcutaneous VNS and non-invasive VNS are gaining better patient compatibility, albeit their efficacy remains to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Wang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
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17
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Ghani S, Vilensky J, Turner B, Tubbs RS, Loukas M. Meta-analysis of vagus nerve stimulation treatment for epilepsy: correlation between device setting parameters and acute response. Childs Nerv Syst 2015; 31:2291-304. [PMID: 26493055 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-015-2921-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an adjunctive neurophysiological treatment for those patients who have pharmacoresistant or surgically resistant partial onset epilepsy. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to determine the effects of high and low stimulation paradigms on a responder rate of ≥50 and ≥75% reduction in seizure frequency and associated adverse effects in adults and children. METHOD A literature search was performed using Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library for studies using vagus nerve stimulation published from January 1980 until July 2014 for medically or surgically resistant partial onset seizures, in children and adults. No restrictions on languages were imposed. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Four authors reviewed and selected studies for inclusion and exclusion. The search identified five randomized control trials that fit with our inclusion criteria. The following outcomes were evaluated: 50% or greater reduction in total seizure frequency, 75% or greater reduction in total seizure frequency, and adverse effects. RESULTS Four randomized controlled trials were analyzed in this meta-analysis. Results indicate high stimulation is more effective in adult patients who experienced ≥50 and ≥75% reduction in seizure frequency with a significant difference within both high and low stimulation groups. In children, there was no significant difference between the two groups and patients with ≥50 % reduction in seizures. Adverse effects such as hoarseness and dyspnea were more common in the high stimulation group where the remaining side effects were not statistically different among both groups. CONCLUSION High stimulation is more effective than low stimulation in producing a greater reduction in seizure frequency in patients with medically and surgically resistant epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ghani
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, WI, USA
| | - J Vilensky
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | - B Turner
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, WI, USA
| | - R S Tubbs
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, WI, USA.,Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - M Loukas
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada, WI, USA.
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18
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Conway CR, Colijn MA, Schachter SC. Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Epilepsy and Depression. Brain Stimul 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/9781118568323.ch17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Amar AP. Vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of intractable epilepsy. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 7:1763-73. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.7.12.1763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Satya-Murti S, Shepard KM, Helmers SL. Vagus nerve stimulation in the treatment of epilepsy: Payment policy perspectives. Neurol Clin Pract 2013; 3:431-435. [PMID: 29473594 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0b013e3182a3931f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This article is presented as a companion to the recent American Academy of Neurology (AAN) guideline update on use of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for treating epilepsy. The guideline update reaffirms the efficacy of VNS for intractable epilepsy. Whereas it upholds the value of VNS for its originally approved indications, the guideline reminds us of existing evidence gaps and unmet research needs. This companion identifies ambiguities in the definition of intractable epilepsies and discusses the use of VNS in children under age 12 years and in persons with intellectual disabilities (mental retardation). Many payers require prior authorization and fulfillment of criteria for coverage of VNS. This article provides guidance and background information to reduce obstacles for coverage, especially where uncertainties exist and levels of evidence are lower.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saty Satya-Murti
- Health Policy Consultant (SS-M), Santa Maria, CA; American Academy of Neurology (KMS), Minneapolis, MN; and Emory University (SLH), Atlanta, GA
| | - Katie M Shepard
- Health Policy Consultant (SS-M), Santa Maria, CA; American Academy of Neurology (KMS), Minneapolis, MN; and Emory University (SLH), Atlanta, GA
| | - Sandra L Helmers
- Health Policy Consultant (SS-M), Santa Maria, CA; American Academy of Neurology (KMS), Minneapolis, MN; and Emory University (SLH), Atlanta, GA
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21
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Complications of vagal nerve stimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy: a single center longitudinal study of 143 patients. Seizure 2013; 22:827-33. [PMID: 23867218 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2013.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2013] [Revised: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 06/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To longitudinally study surgical and hardware complications to vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) treatment in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. METHODS In a longitudinal retrospective study, we analyzed surgical and hardware complications in 143 patients (81 men and 62 women) who between 1994 and 2010 underwent implantation of a VNS-device for drug-resistant epilepsy. The mean follow-up time was 62 ± 46 months and the total number of patient years 738. RESULTS 251 procedures were performed on 143 patients. 16.8% of the patients were afflicted by complications related to surgery and 16.8% suffered from hardware malfunctions. Surgical complications were: superficial infection in 3.5%, deep infection needing explantation in 3.5%, vocal cord palsy in 5.6%, which persisted in at least 0.7% for over one year, and other complications in 5.6%. Hardware-related complications were: lead fracture in 11.9% of patients, disconnection in 2.8%, spontaneous turn-off in 1.4% and stimulator malfunction in 1.4%. We noted a tendency to different survival times between the two most commonly used lead models as well as a tendency to increased infection rate with increasing number of stimulator replacements. CONCLUSION In this series we report on surgical and hardware complications from our 16 years of experience with VNS treatment. Infection following insertion of the VNS device and vocal cord palsy due to damage to the vagus nerve are the most serious complications related to the surgery. Avoiding unnecessary reoperations in order to reduce the appearances of these complications are of great importance. It is therefore essential to minimize technical malfunctions that will lead to additional surgery. Further studies are needed to evaluate the possible superiority of the modified leads.
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Patel KS, Moussazadeh N, Doyle WK, Labar DR, Schwartz TH. Efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation in brain tumor-associated intractable epilepsy and the importance of tumor stability. J Neurosurg 2013; 119:520-5. [PMID: 23600931 DOI: 10.3171/2013.3.jns121890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a viable option for patients with medically intractable epilepsy. However, there are no studies examining its effect on individuals with brain tumor-associated intractable epilepsy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of VNS in patients with brain tumor-associated medically intractable epilepsy. METHODS Epilepsy surgery databases at 2 separate epilepsy centers were reviewed to identify patients in whom a VNS device was placed for tumor-related intractable epilepsy between January 1999 and December 2011. Preoperative and postoperative seizure frequency and type as well as antiepileptic drug (AED) regimens and degree of tumor progression were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using odds ratios and t-tests to examine efficacy. RESULTS Sixteen patients were included in the study. Eight patients (50%) had an improved outcome (Engel Class I, II, or III) with an average follow-up of 39.6 months. The mean reduction in seizure frequency was 41.7% (p = 0.002). There was no significant change in AED regimens. Seizure frequency decreased by 10.9% in patients with progressing tumors and by 65.6% in patients with stable tumors (p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS Vagus nerve stimulation therapy in individuals with brain tumor-associated medically intractable epilepsy was shown to be comparably effective in regard to seizure reduction and response rates to the general population of VNS therapy patients. Outcomes were better in patients with stable as opposed to progressing tumors. The authors' findings support the recommendation of VNS therapy in patients with brain tumor-associated intractable epilepsy, especially in cases in which imminent tumor progression is not expected. Vagus nerve stimulation may not be indicated in more malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunal S Patel
- Departments of Neurological Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY 10065, USA
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23
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Quintas R, Raggi A, Giovannetti AM, Pagani M, Sabariego C, Cieza A, Leonardi M. Psychosocial difficulties in people with epilepsy: a systematic review of literature from 2005 until 2010. Epilepsy Behav 2012; 25:60-7. [PMID: 22749606 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2012.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 05/22/2012] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this paper are to identify factors that influence the psychosocial difficulties (PSDs) that persons with epilepsy experience in their everyday life, to describe their onset and the way they evolve over time, and to analyze the determinants of changes over time and other related variables. Electronic databases were searched for studies published in English between January 2005 and May 2010, and information from thirteen studies was extracted. The most frequent PSDs found in people with epilepsy were depressive symptoms, memory functions, quality of life, anxiety, stigma, locus of control, cognitive functions in general, and emotional functions in general. It can be stated that patients' life areas are affected by cognitive, emotional, and psychological problems. However, the majority of studies focus on isolated PSDs or on the effects of a specific determinant in the course of epilepsy, leaving some gaps that could encourage further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Quintas
- Neurology, Public Health and Disability Unit, Scientific Directorate, Neurological Institute Carlo Besta IRCCS Foundation, Milan, Italy.
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Englot DJ, Chang EF, Auguste KI. Vagus nerve stimulation for epilepsy: a meta-analysis of efficacy and predictors of response. J Neurosurg 2011; 115:1248-55. [PMID: 21838505 DOI: 10.3171/2011.7.jns11977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 306] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) was approved by the US FDA in 1997 as an adjunctive treatment for medically refractory epilepsy. It is considered for use in patients who are poor candidates for resection or those in whom resection has failed. However, disagreement regarding the utility of VNS in epilepsy continues because of the variability in benefit reported across clinical studies. Moreover, although VNS was approved only for adults and adolescents with partial epilepsy, its efficacy in children and in patients with generalized epilepsy remains unclear. The authors performed the first meta-analysis of VNS efficacy in epilepsy, identifying 74 clinical studies with 3321 patients suffering from intractable epilepsy. These studies included 3 blinded, randomized controlled trials (Class I evidence); 2 nonblinded, randomized controlled trials (Class II evidence); 10 prospective studies (Class III evidence); and numerous retrospective studies. After VNS, seizure frequency was reduced by an average of 45%, with a 36% reduction in seizures at 3-12 months after surgery and a 51% reduction after > 1 year of therapy. At the last follow-up, seizures were reduced by 50% or more in approximately 50% of the patients, and VNS predicted a ≥ 50% reduction in seizures with a main effects OR of 1.83 (95% CI 1.80-1.86). Patients with generalized epilepsy and children benefited significantly from VNS despite their exclusion from initial approval of the device. Furthermore, posttraumatic epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis were positive predictors of a favorable outcome. In conclusion, VNS is an effective and relatively safe adjunctive therapy in patients with medically refractory epilepsy not amenable to resection. However, it is important to recognize that complete seizure freedom is rarely achieved using VNS and that a quarter of patients do not receive any benefit from therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario J Englot
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143-0112, USA.
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Wheeler M, De Herdt V, Vonck K, Gilbert K, Manem S, Mackenzie T, Jobst B, Roberts D, Williamson P, Van Roost D, Boon P, Thadani V. Efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy among patient subgroups: a re-analysis using the Engel classification. Seizure 2011; 20:331-5. [PMID: 21273097 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Revised: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimal candidates for VNS as a treatment for refractory epilepsy have not been identified. In this retrospective two-center study, we used the Engel classification for evaluating seizure outcome, and tried to identify predictive factors for outcome by means of subgroup analysis. The medical records of patients who have been treated with VNS for at least one year at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Ghent University Hospital were evaluated. Seizure frequency outcome was assessed using the Engel classification for the study population as a whole, and for patient subgroups with regard to mental functioning, seizure type, predisposing factors for developing epilepsy, age at time of VNS implantation and epilepsy duration. 189 patients (102M/87F) were included in the study (mean FU: 41 months). 6% had a class I outcome (seizure-free), 13% a class II outcome (almost seizure-free), 49% a class III outcome (worthwhile improvement) and 32% had a class IV outcome (no improvement). When patients were divided into specific subgroups, a statistically significant better outcome was found patients with normal mental functioning (p=0.029). In our series, results for VNS are clearly inferior to resective surgery, but comparable to other treatment modalities for refractory epilepsy. With combined class I and II outcomes around 20%, and another 50% of patients having worthwhile improvement, VNS is a viable alternative when resective surgery is not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Wheeler
- Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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Efficacy and tolerability of long-term treatment with vagus nerve stimulation in adolescents and adults with refractory epilepsy and learning disabilities. Seizure 2011; 20:34-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2010.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2010] [Revised: 05/28/2010] [Accepted: 10/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Liang S, Li A, Zhao M, Jiang H, Meng X, Sun Y. Anterior temporal lobectomy combined with anterior corpus callosotomy in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and mental retardation. Seizure 2010; 19:330-4. [PMID: 20554457 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2010.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2009] [Revised: 05/02/2010] [Accepted: 05/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the surgical outcomes of anterior corpus callosotomy (aCCT) combined with anterior temporal lobectomy (ATL) in patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and mental retardation (MR). METHODS Sixty patients with TLE and MR were carefully selected and randomly divided into two equal groups: ATL and aCCT, in which they were treated with ATL or ATL combined with aCCT, respectively. Surgical outcomes, including seizure control, IQ and quality of life (QOL) changes, as well as complications were recorded and analyzed 2 years after operation. RESULTS Seizure-free status had been achieved in 66.7% of all patients. The aCCT group had higher percentage in Engle Classes I-II than the ATL group (96.7% vs. 80.0%, P<0.05). 56.7% of patients in ATL group and 63.3% in aCCT group had improved full scale IQ (FIQ) after surgery, while the decline of FIQ in aCCT group was less than that of ATL group (3.3% vs. 30.0%). Compared with pre-operative score, the mean post-operative score of performance IQ in aCCT group had improved. Significant difference in QOL change had been found between two groups (P<0.001). 73.7% of patients in aCCT group had their QOL improved with no long-term complications. CONCLUSIONS ATL combined with aCCT can improve QOL and performance IQ in patients with TLE and MR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuli Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Capital Epilepsy Therapy Center, First Affiliated Hospital of General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing, China.
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Milby AH, Halpern CH, Baltuch GH. Vagus nerve stimulation in the treatment of refractory epilepsy. Neurotherapeutics 2009; 6:228-37. [PMID: 19332314 PMCID: PMC5084198 DOI: 10.1016/j.nurt.2009.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2008] [Revised: 01/16/2009] [Accepted: 01/17/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many patients with epilepsy suffer from persistent seizures despite maximal anti-epileptic drug therapy. Chronic, intermittent vagus nerve stimulation has been proven to be an effective option for many patients suffering from refractory seizures who are not candidates for surgical resection. Although only a small minority of patients will be entirely seizure-free, vagus nerve stimulation, as an adjunct to medical therapy, may result in significant improvements in quality of life. Vagus nerve stimulation is generally well-tolerated, as device implantation is associated with a low rate of perioperative complications, and the majority of side effects are stimulation-dependent and thus reversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H. Milby
- grid.412713.20000000404351019Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 19104 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Casey H. Halpern
- grid.412713.20000000404351019Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 19104 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Gordon H. Baltuch
- grid.412713.20000000404351019Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 19104 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- grid.411115.10000000404350884Department of Neurosurgery, 3 Silverstein, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, 19104 Philadelphia, PA
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Vonck K, De Herdt V, Boon P. Vagal nerve stimulation--a 15-year survey of an established treatment modality in epilepsy surgery. Adv Tech Stand Neurosurg 2009; 34:111-46. [PMID: 19368083 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-211-78741-0_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurostimulation is an emerging treatment for neurological diseases. Electrical stimulation of the tenth cranial nerve or vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has become a valuable option in the therapeutic armamentarium for patients with refractory epilepsy. It is indicated in patients with refractory epilepsy who are unsuitable candidates for epilepsy surgery or who have had insufficient benefit from such a treatment. Vagus nerve stimulation reduces seizure frequency with > 50% in 1/3 of patients and has a mild side effects profile. Research to elucidate the mechanism of action of vagus nerve stimulation has shown that effective stimulation in humans is primarily mediated by afferent vagal A- and B-fibers. Crucial brainstem and intracranial structures include the locus coeruleus, the nucleus of the solitary tract, the thalamus and limbic structures. Neurotransmitters playing a role may involve the major inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA but also serotoninergic and adrenergic systems. This manuscript reviews the clinical studies investigating efficacy and side effects in patients and the experimental studies aiming to elucidate the mechanims of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Vonck
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
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Stimulation chronique du nerf vague dans le traitement del’épilepsie pharmacorésistante. Neurochirurgie 2008; 54:332-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2008.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2008] [Accepted: 02/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Abstract
Many patients with epilepsy suffer from persistent seizures despite maximal antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy. Chronic, intermittent vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has proven to be a safe, effective option for patients suffering from refractory seizures who are not candidates for surgical resection. Although only a small minority of patients will be entirely seizure-free, VNS as an adjunct to medical therapy does appear to provide a significant amount of improvement in quality of life. Reports of antidepressant effects independent of seizure control, along with the use of multiple AEDs in the treatment of depression, has led to the investigation of VNS as a potential adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder. Both the number of severely depressed patients refractory to available pharmacologic options and the need for repeated treatments and significant side effects associated with electroconvulsive therapy have heightened the interest in VNS for this patient population. Pilot studies of VNS for depression have shown impressive response rates; however, the effect appears to be gradual in onset, as demonstrated by the lack of a favorable response in a short-term, randomized controlled study. Investigation is thus needed to establish the potential role of VNS as an adjunctive treatment for severe depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H. Milby
- grid.412713.20000000404351019Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 19104 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Casey H. Halpern
- grid.412713.20000000404351019Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 19104 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Gordon H. Baltuch
- grid.412713.20000000404351019Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 19104 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Liu S, An N, Yang H, Yang M, Hou Z, Liu L, Liu Y. Pediatric intractable epilepsy syndromes: reason for early surgical intervention. Brain Dev 2007; 29:69-78. [PMID: 16930902 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2006.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2005] [Revised: 06/28/2006] [Accepted: 06/30/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Drug-resistance in several childhood epilepsy syndromes is common, and these patients may tolerate epilepsy surgery. In this study, the surgical outcomes of 24 pediatric patients with various intractable epilepsy syndromes and three patients with tuberous sclerosis were examined at Xinqiao hospital between 1997 and 2004. The study included nine cases of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, two cases of Rasmussen's syndrome, one case of Sturge-Weber syndrome, three cases of West syndrome, three cases of tuberous sclerosis and nine cases of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy syndrome. In each case, different surgical procedures were performed according to preoperative evaluation and ECoG. At an average of 4.5 years after surgery, 14 out of 27 patients (51.9%) had an Engel Class I outcome after surgery, and an additional eight patients (29.6%) had rare seizure (Engel ClassII). Three patients showed a significant decrease in seizure frequency (Engel Class III). The mean IQ increased from 61.4+/-12.2 to 75.0+/-11.0, and greater IQ increase was seen in patients with shorter seizure history and drug-resistance. Temporary complications were observed in four patients and there were no deaths. In conclusion, early surgical intervention in pediatric intractable epilepsy syndromes may results in a favorable outcome in a high percentage of cases and may provides an important opportunity to prevent irreversible decline in intelligence and disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
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Bialer M, Johannessen SI, Kupferberg HJ, Levy RH, Perucca E, Tomson T. Progress report on new antiepileptic drugs: a summary of the Eigth Eilat Conference (EILAT VIII). Epilepsy Res 2006; 73:1-52. [PMID: 17158031 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2006.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2006] [Accepted: 10/30/2006] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Eigth Eilat Conference on New Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs)-EILAT VII, took place in Sitges, Barcelona from the 10th to 14th September, 2006. Basic scientists, clinical pharmacologists and neurologists from 24 countries attended the conference, whose main themes included a focus on status epilepticus (epidemiology, current and future treatments), evidence-based treatment guidelines and the potential of neurostimulation in refractory epilepsy. Consistent with previous formats of this conference, the central part of the conference was devoted to a review of AEDs in development, as well as updates on marketed AEDs introduced since 1989. This article summarizes the information presented on drugs in development, including brivaracetam, eslicarbazepine acetate (BIA-2-093), fluorofelbamate, ganaxolone, huperzine, lacosamide, retigabine, rufinamide, seletracetam, stiripentol, talampanel, valrocemide, JZP-4, NS1209, PID and RWJ-333369. Updates on felbamate, gabapentin, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine and new extended release oxcarbazepine formulations, pregabalin, tiagabine, topiramate, vigabatrin, zonisamide and new extended release valproic acid formulations, and the antiepileptic vagal stimulator device are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meir Bialer
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, David R. Bloom Center for Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel.
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Roosevelt RW, Smith DC, Clough RW, Jensen RA, Browning RA. Increased extracellular concentrations of norepinephrine in cortex and hippocampus following vagus nerve stimulation in the rat. Brain Res 2006; 1119:124-32. [PMID: 16962076 PMCID: PMC1751174 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.08.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 272] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2006] [Revised: 08/03/2006] [Accepted: 08/14/2006] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The vagus nerve is an important source of afferent information about visceral states and it provides input to the locus coeruleus (LC), the major source of norepinephrine (NE) in the brain. It has been suggested that the effects of electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve on learning and memory, mood, seizure suppression, and recovery of function following brain damage are mediated, in part, by the release of brain NE. The hypothesis that left vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) at the cervical level results in increased extracellular NE concentrations in the cortex and hippocampus was tested at four stimulus intensities: 0.0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mA. Stimulation at 0.0 and 0.25 mA had no effect on NE concentrations, while the 0.5 mA stimulation increased NE concentrations significantly in the hippocampus (23%), but not the cortex. However, 1.0 mA stimulation significantly increased NE concentrations in both the cortex (39%) and hippocampus (28%) bilaterally. The increases in NE were transient and confined to the stimulation periods. VNS did not alter NE concentrations in either structure during the inter-stimulation baseline periods. No differences were observed between NE levels in the initial baseline and the post-stimulation baselines. These findings support the hypothesis that VNS increases extracellular NE concentrations in both the hippocampus and cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodney W. Roosevelt
- Brain and Cognitive Sciences Program, Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University
| | - Douglas C. Smith
- Brain and Cognitive Sciences Program, Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
- Department of Anatomy, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
| | - Richard W. Clough
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
- Department of Anatomy, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
| | - Robert A. Jensen
- Brain and Cognitive Sciences Program, Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University
| | - Ronald A. Browning
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
- Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW On the basis of the relevance of adequate epilepsy treatment (antiepileptic drugs, surgery and vagus nerve stimulation) for people with intellectual disabilities, all articles, published from the beginning of 2005 to March 2006 and searched by MEDLINE, on this topic were reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS On pharmacological treatment of epilepsy in people with intellectual disabilities, there were two articles on topiramate and one on levetiracetam. Two studies described the effect of surgical interventions, one of epilepsy surgery in the narrow sense and one of vagus nerve stimulation. Two papers were published on clinical conditions and therapeutic aspects of Angelman syndrome. They highlight the importance of gamma-aminobutyric acidergic mechanism in Angelman syndrome and the antiepileptic drug effects in this syndrome. SUMMARY A contradiction exists between the relevance of epilepsy treatment in people with intellectual disabilities and the small number of published studies on pharmacological treatment. Some of the reasons are addressed and some alternatives are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Huber
- Von Bodelschwinghsche Anstalten Bethel, Bielefeld, Germany
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Bibliography. Current world literature. Mental retardation and developmental disorders. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2006; 19:547-9. [PMID: 16874133 DOI: 10.1097/01.yco.0000238487.57764.c5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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