1
|
Berger A, Cerra M, Joris V, Danthine V, Macq B, Dricot L, Vandewalle G, Delinte N, El Tahry R. Identifying responders to vagus nerve stimulation based on microstructural features of thalamocortical tracts in drug-resistant epilepsy. Neurotherapeutics 2024:e00422. [PMID: 38964949 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms of action of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) and the biological prerequisites to respond to the treatment are currently under investigation. It is hypothesized that thalamocortical tracts play a central role in the antiseizure effects of VNS by disrupting the genesis of pathological activity in the brain. This pilot study explored whether in vivo microstructural features of thalamocortical tracts may differentiate Drug-Resistant Epilepsy (DRE) patients responding and not responding to VNS treatment. Eighteen patients with DRE (37.11 ± 10.13 years, 10 females), including 11 responders or partial responders and 7 non-responders to VNS, were recruited for this high-gradient multi-shell diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) study. Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) and multi-compartment models - Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging (NODDI) and Microstructure Fingerprinting (MF), we extracted microstructural features in 12 subsegments of thalamocortical tracts. These characteristics were compared between responders/partial responders and non-responders. Subsequently, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier was built, incorporating microstructural features and 12 clinical covariates (including age, sex, duration of VNS therapy, number of antiseizure medications, benzodiazepine intake, epilepsy duration, epilepsy onset age, epilepsy type - focal or generalized, presence of an epileptic syndrome - no syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, etiology of epilepsy - structural, genetic, viral, or unknown, history of brain surgery, and presence of a brain lesion detected on structural MRI images). Multiple diffusion metrics consistently demonstrated significantly higher white matter fiber integrity in patients with a better response to VNS (pFDR < 0.05) in different subsegments of thalamocortical tracts. The SVM model achieved a classification accuracy of 94.12%. The inclusion of clinical covariates did not improve the classification performance. The results suggest that the structural integrity of thalamocortical tracts may be linked to therapeutic effectiveness of VNS. This study reveals the great potential of diffusion MRI in improving our understanding of the biological factors associated with the response to VNS therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Berger
- Epilepsy and Neurostimulation Lab, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Catholic University of Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium; Synergia Medical SA, 1435, Mont-Saint-Guibert, Belgium; Sleep and Chronobiology Lab, GIGA-Cyclotron Research Center-In Vivo Imaging, University of Liège, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Michele Cerra
- Institute of Information and Communication Technologies, Electronics and Applied Mathematics (ICTEAM), Catholic University of Louvain, 1348, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium; Politecnico di Torino, Department of Control and Computer Engineering, Corso Duca Degli Abruzzi 24, 10129, Torino, Italy
| | - Vincent Joris
- Epilepsy and Neurostimulation Lab, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Catholic University of Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium; Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (CUSL), Department of Neurosurgery, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Venethia Danthine
- Epilepsy and Neurostimulation Lab, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Catholic University of Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Benoit Macq
- Institute of Information and Communication Technologies, Electronics and Applied Mathematics (ICTEAM), Catholic University of Louvain, 1348, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Laurence Dricot
- Epilepsy and Neurostimulation Lab, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Catholic University of Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gilles Vandewalle
- Sleep and Chronobiology Lab, GIGA-Cyclotron Research Center-In Vivo Imaging, University of Liège, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Delinte
- Epilepsy and Neurostimulation Lab, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Catholic University of Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium; Institute of Information and Communication Technologies, Electronics and Applied Mathematics (ICTEAM), Catholic University of Louvain, 1348, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Riëm El Tahry
- Epilepsy and Neurostimulation Lab, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Catholic University of Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium; Center for Refractory Epilepsy, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (CUSL), Department of Neurology, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cheng T, Hu Y, Qin X, Ma J, Zha D, Xie H, Ji T, Liu Q, Wang Z, Hao H, Wu Y, Li L. A predictive model combining connectomics and entropy biomarkers to discriminate long-term vagus nerve stimulation efficacy for pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14751. [PMID: 39015946 PMCID: PMC11252558 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14751] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS To predict the vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) efficacy for pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) patients, we aim to identify preimplantation biomarkers through clinical features and electroencephalogram (EEG) signals and thus establish a predictive model from a multi-modal feature set with high prediction accuracy. METHODS Sixty-five pediatric DRE patients implanted with VNS were included and followed up. We explored the topological network and entropy features of preimplantation EEG signals to identify the biomarkers for VNS efficacy. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) integrated these biomarkers to distinguish the efficacy groups. RESULTS The proportion of VNS responders was 58.5% (38/65) at the last follow-up. In the analysis of parieto-occipital α band activity, higher synchronization level and nodal efficiency were found in responders. The central-frontal θ band activity showed significantly lower entropy in responders. The prediction model reached an accuracy of 81.5%, a precision of 80.1%, and an AUC (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve) of 0.838. CONCLUSION Our results revealed that, compared to nonresponders, VNS responders had a more efficient α band brain network, especially in the parieto-occipital region, and less spectral complexity of θ brain activities in the central-frontal region. We established a predictive model integrating both preimplantation clinical and EEG features and exhibited great potential for discriminating the VNS responders. This study contributed to the understanding of the VNS mechanism and improved the performance of the current predictive model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tung‐yang Cheng
- National Engineering Research Center of Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace EngineeringTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yingbing Hu
- National Engineering Research Center of Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace EngineeringTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- Tsinghua‐Berkeley Shenzhen InstituteTsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Xiaoya Qin
- National Engineering Research Center of Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace EngineeringTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- Tsinghua‐Berkeley Shenzhen InstituteTsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Jiayi Ma
- Department of PediatricsPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Daqi Zha
- National Engineering Research Center of Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace EngineeringTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Han Xie
- Department of PediatricsPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Taoyun Ji
- Department of PediatricsPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- Pediatric Epilepsy CenterPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- Pediatric Epilepsy CenterPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Zhiyan Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of PsychologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Hongwei Hao
- National Engineering Research Center of Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace EngineeringTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of PediatricsPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- Pediatric Epilepsy CenterPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Luming Li
- National Engineering Research Center of Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace EngineeringTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research at Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Danthine V, Cottin L, Berger A, Germany Morrison EI, Liberati G, Ferrao Santos S, Delbeke J, Nonclercq A, El Tahry R. Electroencephalogram synchronization measure as a predictive biomarker of Vagus nerve stimulation response in refractory epilepsy: A retrospective study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304115. [PMID: 38861500 PMCID: PMC11166337 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
There are currently no established biomarkers for predicting the therapeutic effectiveness of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS). Given that neural desynchronization is a pivotal mechanism underlying VNS action, EEG synchronization measures could potentially serve as predictive biomarkers of VNS response. Notably, an increased brain synchronization in delta band has been observed during sleep-potentially due to an activation of thalamocortical circuitry, and interictal epileptiform discharges are more frequently observed during sleep. Therefore, investigation of EEG synchronization metrics during sleep could provide a valuable insight into the excitatory-inhibitory balance in a pro-epileptogenic state, that could be pathological in patients exhibiting a poor response to VNS. A 19-channel-standard EEG system was used to collect data from 38 individuals with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy (DRE) who were candidates for VNS implantation. An EEG synchronization metric-the Weighted Phase Lag Index (wPLI)-was extracted before VNS implantation and compared between sleep and wakefulness, and between responders (R) and non-responders (NR). In the delta band, a higher wPLI was found during wakefulness compared to sleep in NR only. However, in this band, no synchronization difference in any state was found between R and NR. During sleep and within the alpha band, a negative correlation was found between wPLI and the percentage of seizure reduction after VNS implantation. Overall, our results suggest that patients exhibiting a poor VNS efficacy may present a more pathological thalamocortical circuitry before VNS implantation. EEG synchronization measures could provide interesting insights into the prerequisites for responding to VNS, in order to avoid unnecessary implantations in patients showing a poor therapeutic efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venethia Danthine
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Lise Cottin
- Bio- Electro- And Mechanical Systems (BEAMS), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alexandre Berger
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Sleep and Chronobiology Lab, GIGA-Cyclotron Research Center-in Vivo Imaging, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Enrique Ignacio Germany Morrison
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology (WELBIO) department, WEL Research Institute, Wavre, Belgium
| | - Giulia Liberati
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Institute of Psychology (IPSY), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Susana Ferrao Santos
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium
| | - Jean Delbeke
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Antoine Nonclercq
- Bio- Electro- And Mechanical Systems (BEAMS), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Riëm El Tahry
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium
- Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology (WELBIO) department, WEL Research Institute, Wavre, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Drees C, Afra P, Verner R, Kaye L, Keith A, Jiang M, Szaflarski JP, Nichol K. Feasibility study of microburst VNS therapy in drug-resistant focal and generalized epilepsy. Brain Stimul 2024; 17:382-391. [PMID: 38499287 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2024.03.010] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) at low frequencies (≤30 Hz) has been an established treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) for over 25 years. OBJECTIVE To examine the initial safety and efficacy performance of an investigational, high-frequency (≥250 Hz) VNS paradigm herein called "Microburst VNS" (μVNS). μVNS consists of short, high-frequency bursts of electrical pulses believed to preferentially modulate certain brain regions. METHODS Thirty-three (33) participants were enrolled into an exploratory feasibility study, 21 with focal-onset seizures and 12 with generalized-onset seizures. Participants were titrated to a personalized target dose of μVNS using an investigational fMRI protocol. Participants were then followed for up to 12 months, with visits every 3 months, and monitored for side-effects at all time points. This study was registered as NCT03446664 on February 27th, 2018. RESULTS The device was well-tolerated. Reported adverse events were consistent with typical low frequency VNS outcomes and tended to diminish in severity over time, including dysphonia, cough, dyspnea, and implant site pain. After 12 months of μVNS, the mean seizure frequency reduction for all seizures was 61.3% (median reduction: 70.4%; 90% CI of median: 48.9%-83.3%). The 12-month responder rate (≥50% reduction) was 63.3% (90% CI: 46.7%-77.9%) and the super-responder rate (≥80% reduction) was 40% (90% CI: 25.0%-56.6%). Participants with focal-onset seizures appeared to benefit similarly to participants with generalized-onset seizures (mean reduction in seizures at 12 months: 62.6% focal [n = 19], versus 59.0% generalized [n = 11]). CONCLUSION Overall, μVNS appears to be safe and potentially a promising therapeutic alternative to traditional VNS. It merits further investigation in randomized controlled trials which will help determine the impact of investigational variables and which patients are most suitable for this novel therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Drees
- Mayo Clinic Arizona, Department of Neurology, Phoenix, AZ, USA; University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Pegah Afra
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Weill-Cornell Medicine, Department of Neurology, New York, NY, USA; University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ryan Verner
- LivaNova PLC (or a Subsidiary), Department of Clinical and Medical Affairs, London, UK
| | - Lesley Kaye
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amy Keith
- LivaNova PLC (or a Subsidiary), Department of Clinical and Medical Affairs, London, UK
| | - Mei Jiang
- LivaNova PLC (or a Subsidiary), Department Statistics and Data Science, London, UK
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kathryn Nichol
- LivaNova PLC (or a Subsidiary), Department of Clinical and Medical Affairs, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
González-González MA, Conde SV, Latorre R, Thébault SC, Pratelli M, Spitzer NC, Verkhratsky A, Tremblay MÈ, Akcora CG, Hernández-Reynoso AG, Ecker M, Coates J, Vincent KL, Ma B. Bioelectronic Medicine: a multidisciplinary roadmap from biophysics to precision therapies. Front Integr Neurosci 2024; 18:1321872. [PMID: 38440417 PMCID: PMC10911101 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2024.1321872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Bioelectronic Medicine stands as an emerging field that rapidly evolves and offers distinctive clinical benefits, alongside unique challenges. It consists of the modulation of the nervous system by precise delivery of electrical current for the treatment of clinical conditions, such as post-stroke movement recovery or drug-resistant disorders. The unquestionable clinical impact of Bioelectronic Medicine is underscored by the successful translation to humans in the last decades, and the long list of preclinical studies. Given the emergency of accelerating the progress in new neuromodulation treatments (i.e., drug-resistant hypertension, autoimmune and degenerative diseases), collaboration between multiple fields is imperative. This work intends to foster multidisciplinary work and bring together different fields to provide the fundamental basis underlying Bioelectronic Medicine. In this review we will go from the biophysics of the cell membrane, which we consider the inner core of neuromodulation, to patient care. We will discuss the recently discovered mechanism of neurotransmission switching and how it will impact neuromodulation design, and we will provide an update on neuronal and glial basis in health and disease. The advances in biomedical technology have facilitated the collection of large amounts of data, thereby introducing new challenges in data analysis. We will discuss the current approaches and challenges in high throughput data analysis, encompassing big data, networks, artificial intelligence, and internet of things. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the electrochemical properties of neural interfaces, along with the integration of biocompatible and reliable materials and compliance with biomedical regulations for translational applications. Preclinical validation is foundational to the translational process, and we will discuss the critical aspects of such animal studies. Finally, we will focus on the patient point-of-care and challenges in neuromodulation as the ultimate goal of bioelectronic medicine. This review is a call to scientists from different fields to work together with a common endeavor: accelerate the decoding and modulation of the nervous system in a new era of therapeutic possibilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Alejandra González-González
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Silvia V. Conde
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NOVA University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ramon Latorre
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Stéphanie C. Thébault
- Laboratorio de Investigación Traslacional en salud visual (D-13), Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Marta Pratelli
- Neurobiology Department, Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Nicholas C. Spitzer
- Neurobiology Department, Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Achucarro Centre for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- International Collaborative Center on Big Science Plan for Purinergic Signaling, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Cuneyt G. Akcora
- Department of Computer Science, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | | | - Melanie Ecker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, United States
| | | | - Kathleen L. Vincent
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Brandy Ma
- Stanley H. Appel Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lähde N, Basnyat P, Raitanen J, Kämppi L, Lehtimäki K, Rosti-Otajärvi E, Peltola J. Complex executive functions assessed by the trail making test (TMT) part B improve more than those assessed by the TMT part A or digit span backward task during vagus nerve stimulation in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1349201. [PMID: 38419904 PMCID: PMC10899669 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1349201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a paucity of clinical studies examining the long-term effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on cognition, although a recent study of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) treated with VNS therapy demonstrated significant improvement in executive functions as measured by the EpiTrack composite score. The present study aimed to investigate performance variability in three cognitive tests assessing executive functions and working memory in a cohort of DRE patients receiving VNS therapy during a follow-up duration of up to 5 years. Methods The study included 46 DRE patients who were assessed with the Trail Making Test (TMT) (Parts A and B) and Digit Span Backward (DB) task prior to VNS implantation, 6 months and 12 months after implantation, and yearly thereafter as a part of the clinical VNS protocol. A linear mixed-effects (LME) model was used to analyze changes in test z scores over time, accounting for variations in follow-up duration when predicting changes over 5 years. Additionally, we conducted descriptive analyses to illustrate individual changes. Results On average, TMT-A z scores improved by 0.024 units (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.006 to 0.042, p = 0.009), TMT-B z scores by 0.034 units (95% CI: 0.012 to 0.057, p = 0.003), and DB z scores by 0.019 units per month (95% CI: 0.011 to 0.028, p < 0.001). Patients with psychiatric comorbidities achieved the greatest improvements in TMT-B and DB z scores among all groups (0.0058 units/month, p = 0.036 and 0.028 units/month, p = 0.003, respectively). TMT-A z scores improved the most in patients taking 1-2 ASMs as well as in patients with psychiatric comorbidities (0.042 units/month, p = 0.002 and p = 0.003, respectively). Conclusion Performance in all three tests improved at the group level during the follow-up period, with the most robust improvement observed in TMT-B, which requires inhibition control and set-switching in addition to the visuoperceptual processing speed that is crucial in TMT-A and working-memory performance that is essential in DB. Moreover, the improvement in TMT-B was further enhanced if the patient had psychiatric comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niina Lähde
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Pabitra Basnyat
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jani Raitanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- UKK Institute for Health Promotion Research, Tampere, Finland
| | - Leena Kämppi
- Epilepsia Helsinki, Member of EpiCARE ERN, Department of Neurology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kai Lehtimäki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Eija Rosti-Otajärvi
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Rehabilitation and Psychosocial Support, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jukka Peltola
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lähde N, Basnyat P, Raitanen J, Lehtimäki K, Rosti‐Otajärvi E, Peltola J. Longitudinal EpiTrack assessment of executive functions following vagus nerve stimulation therapy in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:150-163. [PMID: 37897151 PMCID: PMC10839331 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12855] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate executive functions and attention with repeated EpiTrack evaluations in a group of DR patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) receiving vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) during a follow-up duration of up to 5 years. METHODS The study involved 33 patients with DRE who were assessed with EpiTrack as a part of the clinical VNS protocol. Evaluations were scheduled prior to VNS implantation and then at 6 months, 12 months, and yearly thereafter. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted follow-up. Therefore, changes in EpiTrack total scores over time were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects (LMEs) model to compensate for the variation in follow-up duration when predicting EpiTrack total score changes over 5 years. RESULTS The median follow-up time was 29 months. During each month, the EpiTrack total score was predicted to increase by 0.07 units (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01-0.12, P = 0.02), corresponding to a change from a baseline score of 27.3 (severe impairment) to a score of 28.9 (mild impairment) at 2 years and a score of 31.5 (almost normal) at 5 years. In the group of patients with psychiatric comorbidities, the EpiTrack total score increased by 0.14 units per month (P = 0.003), which was 3.5-fold higher than the increase of patients without psychiatric comorbidities. For the patients taking 1-2 antiseizure medications (ASMs), the EpiTrack total score increased by 0.11 units per month (P = 0.005), which was almost quadruple the rate of patients taking 3-4 ASMs. SIGNIFICANCE Based on EpiTrack total scores, the LME model predicted a four-point improvement in executive functions among patients with DRE at 5 years after the initiation of VNS, representing a clinically meaningful change. DRE patients with comorbid depression seemed to experience the most cognitive benefits. In addition, better cognitive outcomes were achieved if the patient took less than three ASMs. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Executive functions and attention may improve during vagus nerve stimulation therapy in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Epilepsy patients who have depression or use fewer than three antiseizure medications are likely to benefit cognitively more from the treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niina Lähde
- Department of NeurologyTampere University HospitalTampereFinland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health TechnologyTampere UniversityTampereFinland
| | - Pabitra Basnyat
- Faculty of Medicine and Health TechnologyTampere UniversityTampereFinland
| | - Jani Raitanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Health SciencesTampere UniversityTampereFinland
- UKK Institute for Health Promotion ResearchTampereFinland
| | - Kai Lehtimäki
- Department of NeurologyTampere University HospitalTampereFinland
- Department of NeurosurgeryTampere University HospitalTampereFinland
| | - Eija Rosti‐Otajärvi
- Department of NeurologyTampere University HospitalTampereFinland
- Department of Rehabilitation and Psychosocial SupportTampere University HospitalTampereFinland
| | - Jukka Peltola
- Department of NeurologyTampere University HospitalTampereFinland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health TechnologyTampere UniversityTampereFinland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Warnock J, Ashcroft C, Sabado RJ, Keithler A, Perdikis S. Complete Heart Block and Ventricular Asystole Caused by Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy. Cureus 2024; 16:e53314. [PMID: 38435952 PMCID: PMC10906750 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53314] [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] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Left vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an advanced therapeutic option for refractory, drug-resistant epilepsy. A 45-year-old woman with a history of refractory catamenial focal epilepsy since age 16, treated with a five-drug antiepileptic regimen and VNS (implanted eight and one-half years prior), presented with dyspnea, chest discomfort, and lightheadedness. During observation, symptoms recurred and were associated with bradycardia (<20 bpm) and a complete atrioventricular node (AVN) block. Following admission, she continued to experience recurrent symptomatic AVN block and transient ventricular asystole, temporally correlated with her baseline seizure activity and resultant activation of her VNS. Deactivation of VNS resolved her bradyarrhythmia, and she experienced no recurrence over 14 months of follow-up. This case highlights a therapeutic dilemma in cases of refractory epilepsy, with limited therapeutic options if seizure activity requires VNS to be controlled.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jarrod Warnock
- Internal Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, USA
| | - Cody Ashcroft
- Internal Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lu Y, Chen K, Zhao W, Hua Y, Bao S, Zhang J, Wu T, Ge G, Yu Y, Sun J, Zhang F. Magnetic vagus nerve stimulation alleviates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by the inhibition of pyroptosis through the M 2AChR/OGDHL/ROS axis in rats. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:421. [PMID: 37957640 PMCID: PMC10644528 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02189-3] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is accompanied by an imbalance in the cardiac autonomic nervous system, characterized by over-activated sympathetic tone and reduced vagal nerve activity. In our preceding study, we pioneered the development of the magnetic vagus nerve stimulation (mVNS) system. This system showcased precise vagus nerve stimulation, demonstrating remarkable effectiveness and safety in treating myocardial infarction. However, it remains uncertain whether mVNS can mitigate myocardial I/R injury and its specific underlying mechanisms. In this study, we utilized a rat model of myocardial I/R injury to delve into the therapeutic potential of mVNS against this type of injury. RESULTS Our findings revealed that mVNS treatment led to a reduction in myocardial infarct size, a decrease in ventricular fibrillation (VF) incidence and a curbing of inflammatory cytokine release. Mechanistically, mVNS demonstrated beneficial effects on myocardial I/R injury by inhibiting NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis through the M2AChR/OGDHL/ROS axis. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these outcomes highlight the promising potential of mVNS as a treatment strategy for myocardial I/R injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Lu
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China
- Department of Cardiology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou Clinical School of Nanjing Medical University, No.199 Jiefang South Road, Xuzhou, 221009, PR China
| | - Kaiyan Chen
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China
| | - Yan Hua
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China
| | - Siyuan Bao
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Echocardiography, Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianyu Wu
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China
| | - Gaoyuan Ge
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China
| | - Yue Yu
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China
| | - Jianfei Sun
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China.
| | - Fengxiang Zhang
- Section of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Guangzhou Road 300, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lyu J, Wang JB, Quan Y, Zhang X, Gong SP, Qu JQ, Huang SP. Effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation for drug-resistant generalized epilepsy in children aged six and younger. Neurochirurgie 2023; 69:101500. [PMID: 37742915 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2023.101500] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To explore a novel scoring system to evaluate the efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in children with drug-resistant generalized epilepsy (DRGE) aged six and younger. BASIC PROCEDURES The data of twelve children with DRGE under the age of 6 years who accepted VNS and have been followed up for at least 3 years were retrospectively reviewed. The outcome was evaluated with the McHugh Classification System and a novel scoring system we proposed. MAIN FINDINGS Based on the McHugh Classification System, the total response rate was 91.67% (11/12) and the rate of Grade I was 41.67% (5/12). A novel scoring system involving seizure frequency, seizure duration and quality of life (QOL) was proposed, by which the outcome was scored from -3 to 11 and graded from IV to I. Based on the novel scoring system, the total response rate was 91.67% (11/12) and the rate of Grade I was 33.33% (4/12). The incidence of complication was 16.67% (2/12). The efficacy of VNS appeared a gradually improving trend with plateau or fluctuation over time. Shorter course of epilepsy prior to VNS may be related to better outcome. PRINCIPAL CONCLUSIONS VNS could effectively reduce the seizure frequency and improve the QOL of children with DRGE aged six and younger. The novel scoring system was comprehensive and feasible to evaluate the efficacy of VNS. The time pattern of the long-term efficacy of VNS requires further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Lyu
- Neurosurgical Department, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
| | - Ju-Bo Wang
- Neurosurgical Department, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Yu Quan
- Neurosurgical Department, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Neurosurgical Department, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Shou-Ping Gong
- Neurosurgical Department, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Jian-Qiang Qu
- Neurosurgical Department, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Shao-Ping Huang
- Pediatric Department, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pires do Prado HJ, Pinto LF, Bezerra DF, de Paola L, Arruda F, de Oliveira AJ, Romão TT, Lessa VCC, Silva JDS, D’Andrea-Meira I. Predictive factors for successful vagus nerve stimulation in patients with refractory epilepsy: real-life insights from a multicenter study. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1210221. [PMID: 37575303 PMCID: PMC10413387 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1210221] [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: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy is an established treatment for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy that reduces seizure frequency by at least 50% in approximately half of patients; however, the characteristics of the patients with the best response have not yet been identified. Thus, it is important to identify the profile of patients who would have the best response to guide early indications and better patient selection. Methods This retrospective study evaluated vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as an adjuvant therapy for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy from six epilepsy centers in Brazil. Data from 192 patients aged 2-66 years were analyzed, and all patients received at least 6 months of therapy to be included. Results Included patients were aged 2-66 years (25.6 ± 14.3), 105 (54.7%) males and 87 (45.8%) females. Median follow-up interval was 5 years (range, 2005-2018). Overall, the response rate (≥50% seizure reduction) after VNS implantation was 65.6% (126/192 patients). Most patients had 50-90% seizure reduction (60.9%) and nine patients became seizure-free. There were no serious complications associated with VNS implantation. The rate of a ≥ 50% seizure reduction response was significantly higher in patients with no history of neurosurgery. The presence of focal without generalized seizures and focal discharges on interictal EEG was associated with better response. Overall, etiological predictors of a better VNS response profile were tumors while a worse response to VNS was related to the presence of vascular malformations and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. Discussion We observed an association between a better response to VNS therapy no history of neurosurgery, focal interictal epileptiform activity, and focal seizure pattern. Additionally, it is important to highlight that age was not a determinant factor of the response, as children and adults had similar response rates. Thus, VNS therapy should be considered in both adults and children with DRE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Jannuzzelli Pires do Prado
- Department of Epilepsy, Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Neurology/Neurosciences, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Lécio Figueira Pinto
- Department of Epilepsy, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Luciano de Paola
- Department of Epilepsy, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Francisco Arruda
- Department of Epilepsy, Instituto de Neurologia de Goiânia, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | - Tayla Taynan Romão
- Postgraduate Program in Neurology/Neurosciences, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | - Jonadab dos Santos Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Neurology/Neurosciences, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Isabella D’Andrea-Meira
- Department of Epilepsy, Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Neurology/Neurosciences, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xie H, Ma J, Ji T, Liu Q, Cai L, Wu Y. Efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation in 95 children of drug-resistant epilepsy with structural etiology. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 140:109107. [PMID: 36758359 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is one of the treatment options for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). To analyze the efficacy of VNS in children of DRE with structural etiology, we conducted a cohort study including 95 patients of DRE with structural etiology who underwent VNS treatment. Patients were followed up every 3 months at the outpatient department or via a remote programming platform. The median follow-up period was 2.6 years (range 1.0-4.6 years). The respective responder rates at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of follow-up were 40.0% (38/95), 52.6% (50/95), 56.0% (47/84), and 59.7% (37/62). The respective seizure-free rates at 12, 18, and 24 months of follow-up were 8.4% (8/95), 9.5% (8/84), and 9.7% (6/62). The patients were divided into four groups based on etiologies: malformations of cortical development (n = 26), post-encephalitic lesions (n = 36), perinatal brain injury lesions (n = 31), and hippocampal sclerosis (n = 2). The respective responder rates at 12 months of follow-up in these groups were 53.8% (14/26), 52.8% (19/36), 51.6% (16/31), and 50.0% (1/2). There were no significant differences in gender, age at onset, age at stimulator implantation, epilepsy duration prior to VNS implantation, number of anti-seizure medications ever tried before VNS treatment, pulse amplitude of VNS, specific structural etiologies, lobe distribution or hemispheric side of structural lesions between responders and non-responders. Of the 95 patients, 8 (8.4%) underwent lesion surgery or hemispherectomy before VNS implantation, and 6/8 (75%) of these patients had a >50% reduction in seizure frequency. One patient who had a corpus callosotomy before VNS implantation had no response to VNS treatment. In conclusion, VNS is an effective treatment in children of DRE with structural etiology. There was no significant difference in VNS efficacy in patients with different structural etiologies. Vagus nerve stimulation treatment may also control seizures well in some patients with poor outcomes after lesion resection or hemispherectomy before VNS implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayi Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Taoyun Ji
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lixin Cai
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Brandt C. Vagus nerve stimulation in people with epilepsy and intellectual disability—English version. ZEITSCHRIFT FÜR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-022-00545-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
15
|
Deep brain stimulation of the anterior nuclei of the thalamus in focal epilepsy. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 144:1-7. [PMID: 36193600 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.09.002] [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] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the therapeutic effects of deep brain stimulation of the anterior nuclei of the thalamus (ANT-DBS) and the predictors of its effectiveness, safety, and adverse effects. METHODS A comprehensive search of the medical literature (PubMed) was conducted to identify relevant articles investigating ANT-DBS therapy for epilepsy. Out of 332 references, 77 focused on focal epilepsies were reviewed. RESULTS The DBS effect is probably due to decreased synchronization of epileptic activity in the cortex. The potential mechanisms from cellular to brain network levels are presented. The ANT might participate actively in the network elaborating focal seizures. The effects of ANT-DBS differed in various studies; ANT-DBS was linked with a 41% seizure frequency reduction at 1 year, 69% at 5 years, and 75% at 7 years. The most frequently reported adverse effects, depression and memory impairment, were considered non-serious in the long-term follow-up view. ANT-DBS also has been used in a few cases to treat status epilepticus. CONCLUSIONS We reviewed the clinical literature and identified several factors that may predict seizure outcome following DBS therapy. More large-scale trials are required since there is a need to explore stimulation settings, apply patient-tailored therapy, and identify the presurgical predictors of patient response. SIGNIFICANCE A critical review of the published literature on ANT-DBS in focal epilepsy is presented. ANT-DBS mechanisms are not fully understood; possible explanations are provided. Biomarkers of ANT-DBS effectiveness may lead to patient-tailored therapy.
Collapse
|
16
|
Hebel JM, Holtkamp M. Epilepsy surgery in older patients – English Version. ZEITSCHRIFT FÜR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-022-00481-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
17
|
Xie H, Ma J, Ji T, Liu Q, Cai L, Wu Y. Vagus nerve stimulation in children with drug-resistant epilepsy of monogenic etiology. Front Neurol 2022; 13:951850. [PMID: 36119689 PMCID: PMC9475310 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.951850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an effective treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). The present study evaluated the efficacy of VNS in pediatric patients with DRE of monogenic etiology. A total of 20 patients who received VNS treatment at our center were followed up every 3 months through outpatient visits or a remote programming platform. The median follow-up time was 1.4 years (range: 1.0–2.9). The rate of response to VNS at 12 months of follow-up was 55.0% (11/20) and the seizure-free rate was 10.0% (2/20). We found that 75.0% (3/4) of patients with an SCN1A variant had a >50% reduction in seizure frequency. Patients with pathogenic mutations in the SLC35A2, CIC, DNM1, MBD5, TUBGCP6, EEF1A2, and CHD2 genes or duplication of X q28 (MECP2 gene) had a >50% reduction in seizure frequency. Compared with the preoperative electroencephalography (EEG), at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after stimulator implantation, the percentage of the patients whose background frequency increased >1.5 Hz was respectively, 15.0% (3/20), 50.0% (10/20), 58.3% (7/12) and 62.5% (5/8); the percentage of the patients whose interictal EEG showed a >50% decrease in spike number was respectively 10% (2/20), 40.0% (8/20), 41.6% (5/12) and 50.0% (4/8). In the 9 patients with no response to VNS treatment, there was no difference in terms of spike number and background frequency between preoperative and postoperative EEG. Five of the 20 children (25.0%) reached new developmental milestones or acquired new skills after VNS compared to the preoperative evaluation. The efficacy of VNS in pediatric patients with DRE of monogenic etiology is consistent with that in the overall population of pediatric DRE patients. Patients with Dravet syndrome (DS), tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), or Rett syndrome/MECP2 duplication syndrome may have a satisfactory response to VNS, but it is unclear whether patients with rare variants of epilepsy-related genes can benefit from the treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayi Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Taoyun Ji
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lixin Cai
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Ye Wu
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ma J, Wang Z, Cheng T, Hu Y, Qin X, Wang W, Yu G, Liu Q, Ji T, Xie H, Zha D, Wang S, Yang Z, Liu X, Cai L, Jiang Y, Hao H, Wang J, Li L, Wu Y. A prediction model integrating synchronization biomarkers and clinical features to identify responders to vagus nerve stimulation among pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 28:1838-1848. [PMID: 35894770 PMCID: PMC9532924 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulation therapy for children with drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE). The efficacy of VNS is heterogeneous. A prediction model is needed to predict the efficacy before implantation. Methods We collected data from children with DRE who underwent VNS implantation and received regular programming for at least 1 year. Preoperative clinical information and scalp video electroencephalography (EEG) were available in 88 children. Synchronization features, including phase lag index (PLI), weighted phase lag index (wPLI), and phase‐locking value (PLV), were compared between responders and non‐responders. We further adapted a support vector machine (SVM) classifier selected from 25 clinical and 18 synchronization features to build a prediction model for efficacy in a discovery cohort (n = 70) and was tested in an independent validation cohort (n = 18). Results In the discovery cohort, the average interictal awake PLI in the high beta band was significantly higher in responders than non‐responders (p < 0.05). The SVM classifier generated from integrating both clinical and synchronization features had the best prediction efficacy, demonstrating an accuracy of 75.7%, precision of 80.8% and area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) of 0.766 on 10‐fold cross‐validation. In the validation cohort, the prediction model demonstrated an accuracy of 61.1%. Conclusion This study established the first prediction model integrating clinical and baseline synchronization features for preoperative VNS responder screening among children with DRE. With further optimization of the model, we hope to provide an effective and convenient method for identifying responders before VNS implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyan Wang
- National Engineering laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Tungyang Cheng
- National Engineering laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingbing Hu
- National Engineering laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoya Qin
- National Engineering laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Wang
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Guojing Yu
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Taoyun Ji
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Han Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Daqi Zha
- National Engineering laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhixian Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lixin Cai
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuwu Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Hao
- National Engineering laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Department of Neurology, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Luming Li
- National Engineering laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Precision Medicine & Healthcare Research Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Institute of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|