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Waris A, Asim M, Ullah A, Alhumaydhi FA. Various pharmacological agents in the pipeline against intractable epilepsy. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024; 357:e2400229. [PMID: 38767508 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202400229] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a noncommunicable chronic neurological disorder affecting people of all ages, with the highest prevalence in low and middle-income countries. Despite the pharmacological armamentarium, the plethora of drugs in the market, and other treatment options, 30%-35% of individuals still show resistance to the current medication, termed intractable epilepsy/drug resistance epilepsy, which contributes to 50% of the mortalities due to epilepsy. Therefore, the development of new drugs and agents is needed to manage this devastating epilepsy. We reviewed the pipeline of drugs in "ClinicalTrials. gov," which is the federal registry of clinical trials to identify drugs and other treatment options in various phases against intractable epilepsy. A total of 31 clinical trials were found regarding intractable epilepsy. Among them, 48.4% (15) are about pharmacological agents, of which 26.6% are in Phase 1, 60% are in Phase 2, and 13.3% are in Phase 3. The mechanism of action or targets of the majority of these agents are different and are more diversified than those of the approved drugs. In this article, we summarized various pharmacological agents in clinical trials, their backgrounds, targets, and mechanisms of action for the treatment of intractable epilepsy. Treatment options other than pharmacological ones, such as devices for brain stimulation, ketogenic diets, gene therapy, and others, are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Waris
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Muhammad Asim
- Department of Neurosciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health (CRMH), Hong Kong SAR
| | - Ata Ullah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Abdennadher M, Rohatgi P, Saxena A. Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy in Epilepsy: An Overview of Technical and Surgical Method, Patient Selection, and Treatment Outcomes. Brain Sci 2024; 14:675. [PMID: 39061416 PMCID: PMC11275221 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14070675] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy affects over 65 million people worldwide. One-third of people with epilepsy do not respond to medication and may benefit from surgery. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is the first neuromodulation therapy for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy. This method is used in combination with anti-seizure medications in adults and in the pediatric population. VNS has also been demonstrated to have benefits for some epilepsy comorbidities, such as depression, and can be used in combination with other neuromodulation therapies in epilepsy. The authors present an overview of VNS physiology, patient selection, surgery and risks, neuromodulation therapy, and application to epilepsy comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Abdennadher
- Neurology Department, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Pratik Rohatgi
- Neurosurgery Department, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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3
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Mertens A, Boon P, Vonck K. Neurostimulation for childhood epilepsy. Dev Med Child Neurol 2024; 66:440-444. [PMID: 37448317 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
The experience with neurostimulation for childhood epilepsy is far less extensive than for adults. Nevertheless, the implementation of these techniques could be of great value, especially considering the detrimental effects of ongoing seizures on the developing brain. In this review, we discuss the available evidence for neurostimulation for childhood epilepsy. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is the most studied neurostimulation modality in children. Based on mostly retrospective, open-label studies, we can conclude that VNS has a similar safety and efficacy profile in children compared to adults. Although there is little available evidence for deep brain stimulation (DBS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) in children, both DBS and RNS show promise in reducing seizure frequency with few complications. The implementation of non-invasive techniques with a more appealing safety profile has gained interest. Small randomized control trials and open-label studies have investigated transcranial direct current simulation for childhood epilepsy, demonstrating promising but inconsistent findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mertens
- Department of Neurology, 4Brain, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Boon
- Department of Neurology, 4Brain, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Kristl Vonck
- Department of Neurology, 4Brain, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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4
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Peterson D, Van Poppel M, Boling W, Santos P, Schwalb J, Eisenberg H, Mehta A, Spader H, Botros J, Vrionis FD, Ko A, Adelson PD, Lega B, Konrad P, Calle G, Vale FL, Bucholz R, Richardson RM. Clinical safety and feasibility of a novel implantable neuroimmune modulation device for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: initial results from the randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled RESET-RA study. Bioelectron Med 2024; 10:8. [PMID: 38475923 PMCID: PMC10935935 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00138-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes persistent synovitis, bone damage, and progressive joint destruction. Neuroimmune modulation through electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve activates the inflammatory reflex and has been shown to inhibit the production and release of inflammatory cytokines and decrease clinical signs and symptoms in RA. The RESET-RA study was designed to determine the safety and efficacy of an active implantable device for treating RA. METHODS The RESET-RA study is a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled, multi-center, two-stage pivotal trial that enrolled patients with moderate-to-severe RA who were incomplete responders or intolerant to at least one biologic or targeted synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug. A neuroimmune modulation device (SetPoint Medical, Valencia, CA) was implanted on the left cervical vagus nerve within the carotid sheath in all patients. Following post-surgical clearance, patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to active stimulation or non-active (control) stimulation for 1 min once per day. A predefined blinded interim analysis was performed in patients enrolled in the study's initial stage (Stage 1) that included demographics, enrollment rates, device implantation rates, and safety of the surgical procedure, device, and stimulation over 12 weeks of treatment. RESULTS Sixty patients were implanted during Stage 1 of the study. All device implant procedures were completed without intraoperative complications, infections, or surgical revisions. No unanticipated adverse events were reported during the perioperative period and at the end of 12 weeks of follow-up. No study discontinuations were due to adverse events, and no serious adverse events were related to the device or stimulation. Two serious adverse events were related to the implantation procedure: vocal cord paresis and prolonged hoarseness. These were reported in two patients and are known complications of surgical implantation procedures with vagus nerve stimulation devices. The adverse event of vocal cord paresis resolved after vocal cord augmentation injections with filler and speech therapy. The prolonged hoarseness had improved with speech therapy, but mild hoarseness persists. CONCLUSIONS The surgical procedures for implantation of the novel neuroimmune modulation device for the treatment of RA were safe, and the device and its use were well tolerated. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04539964; August 31, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Peterson
- Neurosurgery, Austin Neurosurgeons (Arise Medical Center), Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mark Van Poppel
- Neurosurgery, Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Warren Boling
- Neurosurgery, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Perry Santos
- Integris Health Baptist Medical Center, Head and Neck Surgery, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jason Schwalb
- Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Medical Group, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Howard Eisenberg
- Neurosurgery, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ashesh Mehta
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Neurosurgery, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Heather Spader
- Neurosurgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - James Botros
- Neurosurgery, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Frank D Vrionis
- Neurosurgery, Marcus Neuroscience Institute, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Andrew Ko
- Neurosurgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - P David Adelson
- Neurosurgery, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, Neurosurgery, West Virginia University Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Bradley Lega
- Neurological Surgery, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Peter Konrad
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, Neurosurgery, West Virginia University Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | - Fernando L Vale
- Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Richard Bucholz
- Division of Neurological Surgery, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
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5
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Ghatan S. Pediatric Neurostimulation and Practice Evolution. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2024; 35:1-15. [PMID: 38000833 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2023.09.006] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Since the late nineteenth century, the prevailing view of epilepsy surgery has been to identify a seizure focus in a medically refractory patient and eradicate it. Sadly, only a select number of the many who suffer from uncontrolled seizures benefit from this approach. With the development of safe, efficient stereotactic methods and targeted surgical therapies that can affect deep structures and modulate broad networks in diverse disorders, epilepsy surgery in children has undergone a paradigmatic evolutionary change. With modern diagnostic techniques such as stereo electroencephalography combined with closed loop neuromodulatory systems, pediatric epilepsy surgery can reach a much broader population of underserved patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadi Ghatan
- Neurological Surgery Icahn School of Medicine at Mt Sinai, New York, NY 10128, USA.
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6
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Cacace AT, Berri B. Blast Overpressures as a Military and Occupational Health Concern. Am J Audiol 2023; 32:779-792. [PMID: 37713532 DOI: 10.1044/2023_aja-23-00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This tutorial reviews effects of environmental stressors like blast overpressures and other well-known acoustic contaminants (continuous, intermittent, and impulsive noise) on hearing, tinnitus, vestibular, and balance-related functions. Based on the overall outcome of these effects, detailed consideration is given to the health and well-being of individuals. METHOD Because hearing loss and tinnitus are consequential in affecting quality of life, novel neuromodulation paradigms are reviewed for their positive abatement and treatment-related effects. Examples of clinical data, research strategies, and methodological approaches focus on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve paired with tones (VNSt) for their unique contributions to this area. RESULTS Acoustic toxicants transmitted through the atmosphere are noteworthy for their propensity to induce hearing loss and tinnitus. Mounting evidence also indicates that high-level rapid onset changes in atmospheric sound pressure can significantly impact vestibular and balance function. Indeed, the risk of falling secondary to loss of, or damage to, sensory receptor cells in otolith organs (utricle and saccule) is a primary reason for this concern. As part of the complexities involved in VNSt treatment strategies, vocal dysfunction may also manifest. In addition, evaluation of temporospatial gait parameters is worthy of consideration based on their ability to detect and monitor incipient neurological disease, cognitive decline, and mortality. CONCLUSION Highlighting these respective areas underscores the need to enhance information exchange among scientists, clinicians, and caregivers on the benefits and complications of these outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony T Cacace
- Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Batoul Berri
- Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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7
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Haneef Z, Skrehot HC. Neurostimulation in generalized epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsia 2023; 64:811-820. [PMID: 36727550 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There are three neurostimulation devices available to treat generalized epilepsy: vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and responsive neurostimulation (RNS). However, the choice between them is unclear due to lack of head-to-head comparisons. A systematic comparison of neurostimulation outcomes in generalized epilepsy has not been performed previously. The goal of this meta-analysis was to determine whether one of these devices is better than the others to treat generalized epilepsy. METHODS Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was performed for studies reporting seizure outcomes following VNS, RNS, and DBS implantation in generalized drug-resistant epilepsy between the first pivotal trial study for each modality through August 2022. Specific search criteria were used for VNS ("vagus", "vagal", or "VNS" in the title and "epilepsy" or "seizure"), DBS ("deep brain stimulation", "DBS", "anterior thalamic nucleus", "centromedian nucleus", or "thalamic stimulation" in the title and "epilepsy" or "seizure"), and RNS ("responsive neurostimulation" or "RNS" in the title and "epilepsy" or "seizure"). From 4409 articles identified, 319 underwent full-text reviews, and 20 studies were included. Data were pooled using a random-effects model using the meta package in R. RESULTS Sufficient data for meta-analysis were available from seven studies for VNS (n = 510) and nine studies for DBS (n = 87). Data from RNS (five studies, n = 18) were insufficient for meta-analysis. The mean (SD) follow-up durations were as follows: VNS, 39.1 (23.4) months; DBS, 23.1 (19.6) months; and RNS, 22.3 (10.6) months. Meta-analysis showed seizure reductions of 48.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 38.7%-57.9%) for VNS and 64.8% (95% CI = 54.4%-75.2%) for DBS (p = .02). SIGNIFICANCE Our meta-analysis indicates that the use of DBS may lead to greater seizure reduction than VNS in generalized epilepsy. Results from RNS use are promising, but further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfi Haneef
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Neurology Care Line, VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Henry C Skrehot
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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8
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Cramer SW, McGovern RA, Chen CC, Park MC. Clinical Benefit of Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Epilepsy: Assessment of Randomized Controlled Trials and Prospective Non-Randomized Studies. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2023; 15:11795735231151830. [PMID: 36654850 PMCID: PMC9841854 DOI: 10.1177/11795735231151830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
We examined the efficacy of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) for patients suffering from medically intractable epilepsy. Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs - 3 adult RCTs and 1 pediatric RCT) were identified in our comprehensive literature search. Across the 4 studies, high frequency VNS stimulation (frequency >20 Hz) consistently achieved a greater seizure frequency reduction (23.4-33.1%) relative to low frequency VNS stimulation (1 Hz, .6-15.2%). We identified 2 RCTs examining whether the parameters of stimulation influenced seizure control. These studies reported that VNS achieved seizure control comparable to those reported by the first 4 RCTs (22-43% seizure frequency reduction), irrespective of the parameters utilized for VNS stimulation. In terms of VNS associated morbidity, these morbidities were consistently higher in adults who underwent high frequency VNS stimulation (eg dysphonia 37-66%, dyspnea 6-25.3%). However, no such differences were observed in the pediatric population. Moreover, <2% of patients withdrew from the RCTs/prospective studies due to intolerable symptoms. To provide an assessment of how the risks and benefits of VNS impact the patient experience, 1 study assessed the well-being of enrolled patients (as a secondary end point) and found VNS was associated with an overall improvement in well-being. Consistent with this observation, we identified a prospective, non-randomized study that demonstrated improved quality of life for epilepsy patients managed with VNS and best medical practice relative to best medical practice alone. In aggregate, these RCT studies support the efficacy and benefit of VNS as a neuro-modulatory platform in the management of a subset of medically refractory epilepsy patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Cramer
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Delaware St SE, D-429 Mayo Memorial Building, MMC 96, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Robert A McGovern
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Clark C Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Michael C Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA,Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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9
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LoPresti MA, Katlowitz KA, Sharma H, McGinnis JP, Weiner HL. Pediatric Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Case Series Outcomes and Future Directions. Neurosurgery 2023; 92:1043-1051. [PMID: 36700739 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000002326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulatory procedure most extensively studied as an adjunct to medically refractory epilepsy. Despite widespread adoption and decades of clinical experience, clinical predictors of response to VNS remain unclear. OBJECTIVE To evaluate a retrospective cohort of pediatric patients undergoing VNS at our institution to better understand who may benefit from VNS and identify factors which may predict response to VNS. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study examining pediatric patients undergoing VNS over nearly a 20-year span at a single institution. Presurgical evaluation, including demographics, clinical history, and diagnostic electroencephalogram, and imaging findings were examined. Primary outcomes included VNS response. RESULTS Two hundred ninety-seven subjects were studied. The mean age at surgery was 10.1 (SD = 4.9, range = 0.8-25.3) years; length of follow-up was a mean of 4.6 years (SD = 3.5, median = 3.9 years, range 1 day-16.1 years). There was no association between demographic factors, epilepsy etiology, or genetic basis and VNS outcomes. There was an association between reduction in main seizure type with positive MRI finding. Of all MRI findings analyzed, brain atrophy was significantly associated with worse VNS outcomes, whereas dysplastic hippocampus and chronic periventricular leukomalacia findings were found to be associated with improved outcomes. Increased seizure semiology variability and seizure type were also associated with improved seizure outcomes. CONCLUSION Predicting response to VNS remains difficult, leading to incompletely realized benefits and suboptimal resource utilization. Specific MRI findings and increased seizure semiology variability and type can help guide clinical decision making and patient counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A LoPresti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Division of Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kalman A Katlowitz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Division of Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Himanshu Sharma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Division of Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - John P McGinnis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Division of Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Howard L Weiner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Division of Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
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10
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Xue T, Chen S, Bai Y, Han C, Yang A, Zhang J. Neuromodulation in drug-resistant epilepsy: A review of current knowledge. Acta Neurol Scand 2022; 146:786-797. [PMID: 36063433 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13696] [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: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Nearly 1% of the global population suffers from epilepsy. Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) affects one-third of epileptic patients who are unable to treat their condition with existing drugs. For the treatment of DRE, neuromodulation offers a lot of potential. The background, mechanism, indication, application, efficacy, and safety of each technique are briefly described in this narrative review, with an emphasis on three approved neuromodulation therapies: vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT-DBS), and closed-loop responsive neurostimulation (RNS). Neuromodulatory approaches involving direct or induced electrical currents have been developed to lessen seizure frequency and duration in patients with DRE since the notion of electrical stimulation as a therapy for neurologic diseases originated in the early nineteenth century. Although few people have attained total seizure independence for more than 12 months using these treatments, more than half have benefitted from a 50% drop in seizure frequency over time. Although promising outcomes in adults and children with DRE have been achieved, challenges such as heterogeneity among epilepsy types and etiologies, optimization of stimulation parameters, a lack of biomarkers to predict response to neuromodulation therapies, high-level evidence to aid decision-making, and direct comparisons between neuromodulatory approaches remain. To solve these existing gaps, authorize new kinds of neuromodulation, and develop personalized closed-loop treatments, further research is needed. Finally, both invasive and non-invasive neuromodulation seems to be safe. Implantation-related adverse events for invasive stimulation primarily include infection and pain at the implant site. Intracranial hemorrhage is a frequent adverse event for DBS and RNS. Other stimulation-specific side-effects are mild with non-invasive stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Xue
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shujun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yutong Bai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunlei Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Anchao Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianguo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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11
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Paulo DL, Ball TJ, Englot DJ. Emerging Technologies for Epilepsy Surgery. Neurol Clin 2022; 40:849-867. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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12
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Muthiah N, Sharma N, Vodovotz L, White GE, Abel TJ. Predictors of vagus nerve stimulation complications among pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2022; 30:284-291. [PMID: 35901694 DOI: 10.3171/2022.6.peds2289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Complications from vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) procedures are common and can have important implications for morbidity and seizure control, yet predictors of complications are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to assess clinical factors associated with minor and major complications from VNS procedures among pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. METHODS The authors performed an 11-year retrospective review of patients who underwent VNS procedures for drug-resistant epilepsy at age < 21 years. The primary outcome was complications (minor or major) following VNS surgery. Preoperative and surgery characteristics were compared between patients who developed versus those who did not develop complications. Multivariable Poisson regression was performed to determine the association between preoperative characteristics and infection. RESULTS Of 686 surgeries, 48 complications (7.0%) developed; there were 7 minor complications (1.0%) and 41 major complications (6.0%). Surgeries with minor complications were an average of 68 minutes longer than those without minor complications (p < 0.001). The incidence rate of infection was 1 per 100 person-years, with 3% of procedures complicated by infection. Poisson regression revealed that after adjusting for age at surgery, duration of surgery, and primarily motor seizure semiology, the incident rate of infection for revision surgeries preceded by ≥ 2 procedures was 19 times that of first-time revisions. CONCLUSIONS The overall minor complication rate was 1% and the overall major complication rate was 6% for VNS procedures. Longer surgery duration was associated with the development of minor complications but not major complications. Repeat incisions to the VNS pocket may be associated with higher incident rate of infection, highlighting a need for longer-lasting VNS pulse generator models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikhil Sharma
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh
| | - Lena Vodovotz
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh
| | - Gretchen E White
- 2Institute for Clinical Research Education, University of Pittsburgh; and
| | - Taylor J Abel
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh
- 3Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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13
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Abstract
BACKGROUND This is an updated version of the Cochrane Review published in 2015. Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder, characterised by recurring, unprovoked seizures. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulatory treatment that is used as an adjunctive therapy for treating people with drug-resistant epilepsy. VNS consists of chronic, intermittent electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve, delivered by a programmable pulse generator. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of VNS when used as add-on treatment for people with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. SEARCH METHODS For this update, we searched the Cochrane Register of Studies (CRS), and MEDLINE Ovid on 3 March 2022. We imposed no language restrictions. CRS Web includes randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials from the Specialised Registers of Cochrane Review Groups, including Epilepsy, CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. SELECTION CRITERIA We considered parallel or cross-over, randomised, double-blind, controlled trials of VNS as add-on treatment, which compared high- and low-level stimulation (including three different stimulation paradigms: rapid, mild, and slow duty-cycle), and VNS stimulation versus no stimulation, or a different intervention. We considered adults or children with drug-resistant focal seizures who were either not eligible for surgery, or who had failed surgery. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We followed standard Cochrane methods, assessing the following outcomes: 1. 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency 2. Treatment withdrawal (any reason) 3. Adverse effects 4. Quality of life (QoL) 5. Cognition 6. Mood MAIN RESULTS We did not identify any new studies for this update, therefore, the conclusions are unchanged. We included the five randomised controlled trials (RCT) from the last update, with a total of 439 participants. The baseline phase ranged from 4 to 12 weeks, and double-blind treatment phases from 12 to 20 weeks. We rated two studies at an overall low risk of bias, and three at an overall unclear risk of bias, due to lack of reported information about study design. Effective blinding of studies of VNS is difficult, due to the frequency of stimulation-related side effects, such as voice alteration. The risk ratio (RR) for 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency was 1.73 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13 to 2.64; 4 RCTs, 373 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), showing that high frequency VNS was over one and a half times more effective than low frequency VNS. The RR for treatment withdrawal was 2.56 (95% CI 0.51 to 12.71; 4 RCTs, 375 participants; low-certainty evidence). Results for the top five reported adverse events were: hoarseness RR 2.17 (99% CI 1.49 to 3.17; 3 RCTs, 330 participants; moderate-certainty evidence); cough RR 1.09 (99% CI 0.74 to 1.62; 3 RCTs, 334 participants; moderate-certainty evidence); dyspnoea RR 2.45 (99% CI 1.07 to 5.60; 3 RCTs, 312 participants; low-certainty evidence); pain RR 1.01 (99% CI 0.60 to 1.68; 2 RCTs; 312 participants; moderate-certainty evidence); paraesthesia 0.78 (99% CI 0.39 to 1.53; 2 RCTs, 312 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Results from two studies (312 participants) showed that a small number of favourable QOL effects were associated with VNS stimulation, but results were inconclusive between high- and low-level stimulation groups. One study (198 participants) found inconclusive results between high- and low-level stimulation for cognition on all measures used. One study (114 participants) found the majority of participants showed an improvement in mood on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale compared to baseline, but results between high- and low-level stimulation were inconclusive. We found no important heterogeneity between studies for any of the outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS VNS for focal seizures appears to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment. Results of the overall efficacy analysis show that high-level stimulation reduced the frequency of seizures better than low-level stimulation. There were very few withdrawals, which suggests that VNS is well tolerated. Adverse effects associated with implantation and stimulation were primarily hoarseness, cough, dyspnoea, pain, paraesthesia, nausea, and headache, with hoarseness and dyspnoea more likely to occur with high-level stimulation than low-level stimulation. However, the evidence for these outcomes is limited, and of moderate to low certainty. Further high-quality research is needed to fully evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of VNS for drug-resistant focal seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Panebianco
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alexandra Rigby
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
- Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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14
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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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15
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Tarotin I, Mastitskaya S, Ravagli E, Perkins JD, Holder D, Aristovich K. Overcoming temporal dispersion for measurement of activity-related impedance changes in unmyelinated nerves. J Neural Eng 2022; 19. [PMID: 35413701 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac669a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective.Fast neural electrical impedance tomography is an imaging technique that has been successful in visualising electrically evoked activity of myelinated fibres in peripheral nerves by measurement of the impedance changes (dZ) accompanying excitation. However, imaging of unmyelinated fibres is challenging due to temporal dispersion (TP) which occurs due to variability in conduction velocities of the fibres and leads to a decrease of the signal below the noise with distance from the stimulus. To overcome TP and allow electrical impedance tomography imaging in unmyelinated nerves, a new experimental and signal processing paradigm is required allowing dZ measurement further from the site of stimulation than compound neural activity is visible. The development of such a paradigm was the main objective of this study.Approach.A finite element-based statistical model of TP in porcine subdiaphragmatic nerve was developed and experimentally validatedex-vivo. Two paradigms for nerve stimulation and processing of the resulting data-continuous stimulation and trains of stimuli, were implemented; the optimal paradigm for recording dispersed dZ in unmyelinated nerves was determined.Main results.While continuous stimulation and coherent spikes averaging led to higher signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) at close distances from the stimulus, stimulation by trains was more consistent across distances and allowed dZ measurement at up to 15 cm from the stimulus (SNR = 1.8 ± 0.8) if averaged for 30 min.Significance.The study develops a method that for the first time allows measurement of dZ in unmyelinated nerves in simulation and experiment, at the distances where compound action potentials are fully dispersed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilya Tarotin
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Svetlana Mastitskaya
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico Ravagli
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Justin D Perkins
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - David Holder
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Kirill Aristovich
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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16
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Ottaviani MM, Vallone F, Micera S, Recchia FA. Closed-Loop Vagus Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases: State of the Art and Future Directions. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:866957. [PMID: 35463766 PMCID: PMC9021417 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.866957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system exerts a fine beat-to-beat regulation of cardiovascular functions and is consequently involved in the onset and progression of many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Selective neuromodulation of the brain-heart axis with advanced neurotechnologies is an emerging approach to corroborate CVDs treatment when classical pharmacological agents show limited effectiveness. The vagus nerve is a major component of the cardiac neuroaxis, and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a promising application to restore autonomic function under various pathological conditions. VNS has led to encouraging results in animal models of CVDs, but its translation to clinical practice has not been equally successful, calling for more investigation to optimize this technique. Herein we reviewed the state of the art of VNS for CVDs and discuss avenues for therapeutic optimization. Firstly, we provided a succinct description of cardiac vagal innervation anatomy and physiology and principles of VNS. Then, we examined the main clinical applications of VNS in CVDs and the related open challenges. Finally, we presented preclinical studies that aim at overcoming VNS limitations through optimization of anatomical targets, development of novel neural interface technologies, and design of efficient VNS closed-loop protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Maria Ottaviani
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabio Vallone
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvestro Micera
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neural Engineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics, Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fabio A. Recchia
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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17
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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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18
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Lim MJR, Fong KY, Zheng Y, Chua CYK, Miny S, Lin JB, Nga VDW, Ong HT, Rathakrishnan R, Yeo TT. Vagus nerve stimulation for treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurosurg Rev 2022; 45:2361-2373. [PMID: 35217961 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-022-01757-9] [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: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To analyze the efficacy and safety of high-frequency VNS versus control (low-frequency VNS or no VNS) in patients with DRE using data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). An electronic literature search was conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL); 12 RCTs reporting seizure frequency or treatment response in studies containing a high-frequency VNS treatment arm (conventional VNS or transcutaneous VNS [tVNS]) compared to control (low-frequency VNS or no VNS) were included. Seizure frequency, treatment response (number of patients with ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency), quality of life (QOL), and adverse effects were analyzed. Seizure frequency was reported in 9 studies (718 patients). Meta-analysis with random-effects models favored high-frequency VNS over control (standardized mean difference = 0.82, 95%-CI = 0.39-1.24, p < .001). This remained significant for subgroup analyses of low-frequency VNS as the control, VNS modality, and after removing studies with moderate-to-high risk of bias. Treatment response was reported in 8 studies (758 patients). Random-effects models favored high-frequency VNS over control (risk ratio = 1.57, 95%-CI = 1.19-2.07, p < .001). QOL outcomes were reported descriptively in 4 studies (363 patients), and adverse events were reported in 11 studies (875 patients). Major side effects and death were not observed to be more common in high-frequency VNS compared to control. High-frequency VNS results in reduced seizure frequency and improved treatment response compared to control (low-frequency VNS or no VNS) in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Greater consideration for VNS in patients with DRE may be warranted to decrease seizure frequency in the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mervyn Jun Rui Lim
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Surgical Centre, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Khi Yung Fong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yilong Zheng
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Christopher Yuan Kit Chua
- Division of Neurology, University Medical Centre, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Samuel Miny
- Systematic Review Unit, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeremy Bingyuan Lin
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Khoo Teck Puat - National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vincent Diong Weng Nga
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Surgical Centre, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hian Tat Ong
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Khoo Teck Puat - National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rahul Rathakrishnan
- Division of Neurology, University Medical Centre, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tseng Tsai Yeo
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Surgical Centre, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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19
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Abstract
Three neuromodulation therapies, all using implanted device and electrodes, have been
approved to treat adults with drug-resistant focal epilepsy, namely, the vagus nerve
stimulation in 1995, deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus
(ANT-DBS) in 2018 (2010 in Europe), and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) in 2014.
Indications for VNS have more recently extended to children down to age of 4. Limited or
anecdotal data are available in other epilepsy syndromes and refractory/super-refractory
status epilepticus. Overall, neuromodulation therapies are palliative, with only a
minority of patients achieving long-term seizure freedom, justifying favoring such
treatments in patients who are not good candidates for curative epilepsy surgery. About
half of patients implanted with VNS, ANT-DBS, and RNS have 50% or greater reduction in
seizures, with long-term data suggesting increased efficacy over time. Besides their
impact on seizure frequency, neuromodulation therapies are associated with various
benefits and drawbacks in comparison to antiseizure drugs. Yet, we lack high-level
evidence to best position each neuromodulation therapy in the treatment pathways of
persons with difficult-to-treat epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Ryvlin
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lara E. Jehi
- Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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20
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Comparison of traditional and closed loop vagus nerve stimulation for treatment of pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy: A propensity-matched retrospective cohort study. Seizure 2021; 94:74-81. [PMID: 34872020 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [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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21
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Tamura G, Lo WB, Yau I, Vaughan KA, Go C, Singleton WG, Hazon D, Yan H, Otsubo H, Donner EJ, Rutka JT, Ibrahim GM. Patient Characteristics Associated with Seizure Freedom after Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Pediatric Intractable Epilepsy: An Analysis of “Super-Responders”. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC EPILEPSY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1739489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractClinical responses to vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy for intractable epilepsy can be unpredictable, and factors that predict response to therapy are elusive. Minority of children undergoing VNS achieve seizure freedom. The current study aimed to characterize this exceptional patient population, defined as “super-responders” (SRs). Retrospective data were collected from 150 children who underwent VNS at a single pediatric institution. The patients' mean age at VNS device implantation was 12.0 years (range, 3.09–17.9 years). Ten SRs (6.7%) were identified who achieved and maintained seizure freedom for longer than 1 year following implantation. The interval between epilepsy onset and VNS device implantation was significantly shorter in SRs than in the other children (mean epilepsy duration 5.72 vs. 8.44 years, respectively; p = 0.032). SRs also had a significantly shorter proportion of life with epilepsy compared with the other children (mean ratio of epilepsy duration to age at implantation 0.52 vs. 0.71, respectively; p = 0.023). SRs reported their seizure freedom relatively early (six patients within 6 months and all patients within 12 months after implantation) at relatively low device settings (mean output current 0.81 mA at their last follow-up). Compared with conventional models, responsive VNS models with autostimulation features did not increase the ratio of SRs. No other clinical or imaging characteristic difference between SRs and the other children was found in this cohort. The current study showed a significant association between shorter epilepsy duration and shorter proportion of life with epilepsy and seizure freedom after VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goichiro Tamura
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ibaraki Children's Hospital, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - William B. Lo
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ivanna Yau
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kerry A. Vaughan
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cristina Go
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - William G.B. Singleton
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Hazon
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Han Yan
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hiroshi Otsubo
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth J. Donner
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - James T. Rutka
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - George M. Ibrahim
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Ryvlin P, Rheims S, Hirsch LJ, Sokolov A, Jehi L. Neuromodulation in epilepsy: state-of-the-art approved therapies. Lancet Neurol 2021; 20:1038-1047. [PMID: 34710360 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00300-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Three neuromodulation therapies have been appropriately tested and approved in refractory focal epilepsies: vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT-DBS), and closed-loop responsive neurostimulation of the epileptogenic zone or zones. These therapies are primarily palliative. Only a few individuals have achieved complete freedom from seizures for more than 12 months with these therapies, whereas more than half have benefited from long-term reduction in seizure frequency of more than 50%. Implantation-related adverse events primarily include infection and pain at the implant site. Intracranial haemorrhage is a frequent adverse event for ANT-DBS and responsive neurostimulation. Other stimulation-specific side-effects are observed with VNS and ANT-DBS. Biomarkers to predict response to neuromodulation therapies are not available, and high-level evidence to aid decision making about when and for whom these therapies should be preferred over other antiepileptic treatments is scant. Future studies are thus needed to address these shortfalls in knowledge, approve other forms of neuromodulation, and develop personalised closed-loop therapies with embedded machine learning. Until then, neuromodulation could be considered for individuals with intractable seizures, ideally after the possibility of curative surgical treatment has been carefully assessed and ruled out or judged less appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Ryvlin
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Sylvain Rheims
- Department of Functional Neurology and Epileptology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon 1 University Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1028/CNRS UMR 5292 Epilepsy Institute, Lyon, France
| | - Lawrence J Hirsch
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Arseny Sokolov
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lara Jehi
- Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 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: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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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Parisi V, Lundstrom BN, Kerezoudis P, Alcala Zermeno JL, Worrell GA, Van Gompel JJ. Anterior Nucleus of the Thalamus Deep Brain Stimulation with Concomitant Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy. Neurosurgery 2021; 89:686-694. [PMID: 34333659 DOI: 10.1093/neuros/nyab253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Food and Drug Administration approved the deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT-DBS) as an adjunctive therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in the United States in 2018. The DBS Therapy for Epilepsy Post-Approval Study is further evaluating the safety and effectiveness of ANT-DBS among different patients' groups. For this study, devices for vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) must be removed prior to enrolment. OBJECTIVE To investigate the outcomes of concomitant ANT-DBS and VNS treatment for DRE. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed for 33 patients who underwent ANT-DBS using previous VNS to define distinct subgroups: standard ANT-DBS (9 subjects), ANT-DBS with functional VNS (12 subjects), and ANT-DBS with the VNS implantable pulse generator explanted or turned off at the time of the DBS (12 subjects). Effectiveness and safety data were analyzed across the whole population and among subgroups. RESULTS A mean decrease in seizure frequency of 55% was observed after a mean follow-up of 25.5 mo. Approximately 67% of patients experienced ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency. Seizure reduction percentage was not significantly different among groups. Approximately 50% of subjects with no appreciable improvement and 75% of those who showed benefit after VNS (including improvement in seizure frequency, seizure severity, and seizure duration or quality of life) achieved a seizure reduction ≥50% after ANT-DBS surgery. There were no complications related to concomitant VNS and ANT-DBS. CONCLUSION ANT-DBS for DRE provides excellent results despite previous and ongoing VNS therapy. Removal of VNS does not appear to be necessary before ANT-DBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Parisi
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
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Fattorusso A, Matricardi S, Mencaroni E, Dell'Isola GB, Di Cara G, Striano P, Verrotti A. The Pharmacoresistant Epilepsy: An Overview on Existent and New Emerging Therapies. Front Neurol 2021; 12:674483. [PMID: 34239494 PMCID: PMC8258148 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.674483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological chronic disorders, with an estimated prevalence of 0. 5 - 1%. Currently, treatment options for epilepsy are predominantly based on the administration of symptomatic therapy. Most patients are able to achieve seizure freedom by the first two appropriate drug trials. Thus, patients who cannot reach a satisfactory response after that are defined as pharmacoresistant. However, despite the availability of more than 20 antiseizure medications (ASMs), about one-third of epilepsies remain drug-resistant. The heterogeneity of seizures and epilepsies, the coexistence of comorbidities, and the broad spectrum of efficacy, safety, and tolerability related to the ASMs, make the management of these patients actually challenging. In this review, we analyze the most relevant clinical and pathogenetic issues related to drug-resistant epilepsy, and then we discuss the current evidence about the use of available ASMs and the alternative non-pharmacological approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Fattorusso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pediatric Clinic, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Sara Matricardi
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Children's Hospital “G. Salesi”, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Mencaroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pediatric Clinic, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Di Cara
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pediatric Clinic, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS “G. Gaslini” Institute, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alberto Verrotti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pediatric Clinic, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Doddamani RS, Agrawal M, Samala R, Ramanujam B, Chandra PS, Tripathi M. Vagal Nerve Stimulation in the Management of Epilepsy - Recent Concepts. Neurol India 2021; 68:S259-S267. [PMID: 33318360 DOI: 10.4103/0028-3886.302475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy surgery currently offers the best treatment for patients with drug-refractory epilepsy (DRE). Resective surgery, in the presence of a well-localized epileptogenic focus, remains the best modality towards achieving seizure freedom. However, localization of the focus may not be possible in all the cases of DRE, despite comprehensive epilepsy workup. Neuromodulation techniques such as vagal nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) may be a good alternative in these cases. This article intends to provide an overview of VNS in the management of DRE, including indications, comprehensive preoperative workup, exemplified by case illustrations and outcomes by reviewing the evidence available in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohit Agrawal
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Raghu Samala
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Bhargavi Ramanujam
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Manjari Tripathi
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Jain P, Arya R. Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Seizure Outcomes in Pediatric Refractory Epilepsy: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Neurology 2021; 96:1041-1051. [PMID: 33849993 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000012030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We synthesized evidence for effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as adjuvant therapy in pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) by obtaining pooled estimates for seizure outcomes and analyzing their determinants. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched up to July 2019 for original research on VNS in pediatric (≤18 years of age) epilepsy. The primary outcome was 50% responder rate (50% RR), the proportion of patients with ≥50% seizure reduction, at the last reported follow-up. Other outcomes included a 50% RR and proportion of seizure-free patients at additional reported time points. A random-effects meta-analysis with restricted maximum likelihood estimation was performed to obtain pooled effect estimates. Meta-regression using multiple linear models was performed to obtain determinants of seizure outcomes and sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS A total of 101 studies were included. The pooled prevalence estimates for a 50% RR and seizure freedom at last follow-up (mean 2.54 years) were 56.4% (95% confidence intervals [CIs] 52.4, 60.4) and 11.6% (95% CI 9.6, 13.9), respectively. Fewer antiseizure medications (ASMs) tried before VNS and later age at onset of seizures were associated with better seizure outcomes following VNS implantation. An effect of sex distribution of studies on long-term outcomes and a potential publication bias for short-term outcomes were also observed. CONCLUSION Pooled evidence supports possible effectiveness of VNS in pediatric DRE, although complete seizure freedom is less common. Early referral (fewer trials of ASMs) may be a modifiable factor for desirable seizure outcomes with VNS from a clinical perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puneet Jain
- From the Epilepsy Program (P.J.), Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Pediatric Neurology (P.J.), Department of Pediatrics, Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women and Children, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (R.A.), Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; and Department of Pediatrics (R.A.), University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Ravindra Arya
- From the Epilepsy Program (P.J.), Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Pediatric Neurology (P.J.), Department of Pediatrics, Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women and Children, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (R.A.), Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; and Department of Pediatrics (R.A.), University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH.
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Cracchiolo M, Ottaviani MM, Panarese A, Strauss I, Vallone F, Mazzoni A, Micera S. Bioelectronic medicine for the autonomic nervous system: clinical applications and perspectives. J Neural Eng 2021; 18. [PMID: 33592597 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abe6b9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bioelectronic medicine (BM) is an emerging new approach for developing novel neuromodulation therapies for pathologies that have been previously treated with pharmacological approaches. In this review, we will focus on the neuromodulation of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity with implantable devices, a field of BM that has already demonstrated the ability to treat a variety of conditions, from inflammation to metabolic and cognitive disorders. Recent discoveries about immune responses to ANS stimulation are the laying foundation for a new field holding great potential for medical advancement and therapies and involving an increasing number of research groups around the world, with funding from international public agencies and private investors. Here, we summarize the current achievements and future perspectives for clinical applications of neural decoding and stimulation of the ANS. First, we present the main clinical results achieved so far by different BM approaches and discuss the challenges encountered in fully exploiting the potential of neuromodulatory strategies. Then, we present current preclinical studies aimed at overcoming the present limitations by looking for optimal anatomical targets, developing novel neural interface technology, and conceiving more efficient signal processing strategies. Finally, we explore the prospects for translating these advancements into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Cracchiolo
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Matteo Maria Ottaviani
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Panarese
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ivo Strauss
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabio Vallone
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alberto Mazzoni
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvestro Micera
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.,Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational NeuroEngineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
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Zhu J, Xu C, Zhang X, Qiao L, Wang X, Zhang X, Yan X, Ni D, Yu T, Zhang G, Li Y. Altered amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations and regional homogeneity in drug-resistant epilepsy patients with vagal nerve stimulators under different current intensity. CNS Neurosci Ther 2021; 27:320-329. [PMID: 32965801 PMCID: PMC7871792 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) remain unclear. This study aimed to measure spontaneous brain activity changes caused by VNS in DRE patients using resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI). METHODS The rs-fMRI scans were performed in 16 DRE patients who underwent VNS surgery. Amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) was generated and examined using paired sample t-test to compare activity changes at different current intensity stage. The preoperative and postoperative ALFF/ReHo were also compared in eight responders (≥50% reduction of seizure frequency three months after surgery) and eight nonresponders using paired sample t-test. RESULTS The significant ALFF and ReHo changes were shown in various cortical/subcortical structures in patients under different current intensity. After three months of stimulation, responders exhibited increased ALFF in the right middle cingulate gyrus, left parahippocampal gyrus, and left cerebellum, and increased ReHo in the right postcentral gyrus, left precuneus, left postcentral gyrus, right superior parietal gyrus, right precentral gyrus, and right superior frontal gyrus. Nonresponders exhibited decreased ALFF in the left temporal lobe and right cerebellum, increased ALFF in bilateral brainstem, decreased ReHo in bilateral lingual gyri, and increased ReHo in the right middle frontal gyrus and right anterior cingulate gyrus. CONCLUSIONS The spontaneous neural activity changes in DRE patients caused by VNS were in an ongoing process. Increased ALFF/ReHo in frontal cortex, cingulate gyri, precentral/postcentral gyri, parahippocampal gyri, precuneus, parietal cortex, and cerebellum may implicate in VNS-induced improvement in seizure frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhu
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Cuiping Xu
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xi Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Liang Qiao
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xueyuan Wang
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoming Yan
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Duanyu Ni
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Tao Yu
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Guojun Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yongjie Li
- Beijing Institute of Functional NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
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Zhu J, Xu C, Zhang X, Qiao L, Wang X, Zhang X, Yan X, Ni D, Yu T, Zhang G, Li Y. The changes in the topological properties of brain structural network based on diffusion tensor imaging in pediatric epilepsy patients with vagus nerve stimulators: A graph theoretical analysis. Brain Dev 2021; 43:97-105. [PMID: 32713660 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to analyze the topological characteristics of brain structural network in pediatric epilepsy patients with vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) by applying graph theoretical approaches. METHODS Nine patients with generalized seizures and eight normal controls (NC) were enrolled. Based on diffusion tensor imaging, graph theory analysis was used to characterize the topological properties in preoperative patients (EP-pre), postoperative patients (EP-post) and NC. The global properties included clustering coefficient (Cp), shortest path length (Lp), small-worldness (γ, λ, δ), global network efficiency (Eg) and local network efficiency (Eloc). The regional properties included degree centrality (DC), nodal efficiency (NE), nodal local efficiency (NLE) and nodal shortest path length (Np). Two sample t-test and paired sample t-test were utilized to compare properties difference. RESULTS All three groups followed small-world characteristics. There was no significant difference in small-worldness, Cp, Lp, Eg or Eloc between EP-pre and EP-post. Compared with EP-pre: DC in EP-post decreased in the right cuneus and right temporal gyri, while increased in the right paracentral lobule; NE in EP-post decreased in the left dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus, right cuneus, right supramarginal gyrus, and right rolandic operculum, while increased in the right paracentral lobule; NLE in EP-post decreased in the left posterior cingulate gyrus and right supramarginal gyrus, while increased in the left parahippocampal gyrus; NP in EP-post decreased in the right paracentral lobule, while increased in the right cuneus. CONCLUSION VNS causes topological characteristics changes in pediatric patients with generalized seizures through regulating regional properties in some brain structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhu
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Cuiping Xu
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Qiao
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xueyuan Wang
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoming Yan
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Duanyu Ni
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guojun Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongjie Li
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Salvage therapy for vagal nerve stimulator infection; Literature review and report of a delayed recurrence. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2020; 200:106333. [PMID: 33203592 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2020.106333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is one of the most common neuro-modulation based approaches for the treatment of medically intractable epilepsy. Despite advances in technology and surgical techniques, hardware infection remains a recognized and feared complication in VNS placement. Management of such infections is scarce in the literature with the majority of data available in case reports. It ranges from immediate removal of the VNS device to conservative treatment with antibiotics in an attempt to salvage the device, particularly in patients who demonstrated significant improvement in seizure frequency and quality of life. METHODS We performed a review of the literature in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to identify reported cases of salvaged VNS infection. A literature search for relevant English articles was conducted using Medline. References of relevant articles were also reviewed. Articles that comprised an attempt to salvage an infected VNS were included. RESULTS We obtained 12 articles describing an attempt to salvage an infected VNS. Out of a total of 62 reported VNS infections and 43 salvage attempts using a variety of antibiotic-based approaches, 17 cases were successfully salvaged and 26 cases failed the salvage attempt and had to be explanted eventually. Moreover, we report a case of an 18-year-old male with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome who presented21 days after VNS placement with a MRSA deep tissue infection. An attempt was made to treat the infection with long-term culture-based intravenous antibiotics, but it recurred three years later with neck wound dehiscence and positive wound culture for the same organism, and ex-plantation was thus performed. CONCLUSION The management of VNS infections remains a dilemma for neurosurgeons. Although the idea of salvaging an infected VNS seems appealing, hardware removal seems to be inevitable despite adequate antibiotic treatment.
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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: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [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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Marras CE, Colicchio G, De Palma L, De Benedictis A, Di Gennaro G, Cavaliere M, Cesaroni E, Consales A, Asioli S, Caulo M, Villani F, Zamponi N. Health Technology Assessment Report on Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Drug-Resistant Epilepsy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E6150. [PMID: 32847092 PMCID: PMC7504285 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a palliative treatment for medical intractable epileptic syndromes not eligible for resective surgery. Health technology assessment (HTA) represents a modern approach to the analysis of technologies used for healthcare. The purpose of this study is to assess the clinical, organizational, financial, and economic impact of VNS therapy in drug-resistant epilepsies and to establish the congruity between costs incurred and health service reimbursement. Methods: The present study used an HTA approach. It is based on an extensive detailed bibliographic search on databases (Medline, Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane, sites of scientific societies and institutional sites). The HTA study includes the following issues: (a) social impact and costs of the disease; (b) VNS eligibility and clinical results; (c) quality of life (QoL) after VNS therapy; (d) economic impact and productivity regained after VNS; and (e) costs of VNS. Results: Literature data indicate VNS as an effective treatment with a potential positive impact on social aspects and on quality of life. The diagnosis-related group (DRG) financing, both on national and regional levels, does not cover the cost of the medical device. There was an evident insufficient coverage of the DRG compared to the full cost of implanting the device. Conclusions: VNS is a palliative treatment for reducing seizure frequency and intensity. Despite its economic cost, VNS should improve patients' quality of life and reduce care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Efisio Marras
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.D.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Gabriella Colicchio
- Department of Neurosurgery, UCSC Gemelli University Hospital, 00167 Rome, Italy;
| | - Luca De Palma
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alessandro De Benedictis
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.D.B.); (M.C.)
| | | | - Marilou Cavaliere
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.D.B.); (M.C.)
- Institute of Neurosurgery, University of Milan Bicocca, 20900 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Cesaroni
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, Salesi Children Hospital, 60123 Ancona, Italy; (E.C.); (N.Z.)
| | | | - Sofia Asioli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Section of Anatomic Pathology, Bellaria Hospital, University of Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Massimo Caulo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University of Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Flavio Villani
- Division of Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsy Center, IRCCS, San Martino Hospital, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Nelia Zamponi
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, Salesi Children Hospital, 60123 Ancona, Italy; (E.C.); (N.Z.)
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Davis P, Gaitanis J. Neuromodulation for the Treatment of Epilepsy: A Review of Current Approaches and Future Directions. Clin Ther 2020; 42:1140-1154. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2020.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Kochilas HL, Cacace AT, Arnold A, Seidman MD, Tarver WB. Vagus nerve stimulation paired with tones for tinnitus suppression: Effects on voice and hearing. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2020; 5:286-296. [PMID: 32337360 PMCID: PMC7178458 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In individuals with chronic tinnitus, our interest was to determine whether daily low-level electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve paired with tones (paired-VNSt) for tinnitus suppression had any adverse effects on motor-speech production and physiological acoustics of sustained vowels. Similarly, we were also interested in evaluating for changes in pure-tone thresholds, word-recognition performance, and minimum-masking levels. Both voice and hearing functions were measured repeatedly over a period of 1 year. STUDY DESIGN Longitudinal with repeated-measures. METHODS Digitized samples of sustained frontal, midline, and back vowels (/e/, /o/, /ah/) were analyzed with computer software to quantify the degree of jitter, shimmer, and harmonic-to-noise ratio contained in these waveforms. Pure-tone thresholds, monosyllabic word-recognition performance, and MMLs were also evaluated for VNS alterations. Linear-regression analysis was the benchmark statistic used to document change over time in voice and hearing status from a baseline condition. RESULTS Most of the regression functions for the vocal samples and audiometric variables had slope values that were not significantly different from zero. Four of the nine vocal functions showed a significant improvement over time, whereas three of the pure tone regression functions at 2-4 kHz showed some degree of decline; all changes observed were for the left ear, all were at adjacent frequencies, and all were ipsilateral to the side of VNS. However, mean pure-tone threshold changes did not exceed 4.29 dB from baseline and therefore, would not be considered clinically significant. In some individuals, larger threshold shifts were observed. No significant regression/slope effects were observed for word-recognition or MMLs. CONCLUSION Quantitative voice analysis and assessment of audiometric variables showed minimal if any evidence of adverse effects using paired-VNSt over a treatment period of 1 year. Therefore, we conclude that paired-VNSt is a safe tool for tinnitus abatement in humans without significant side effects. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen L. Kochilas
- North Atlanta Ears, Nose, Throat & Allergy, AlpharettaGeorgia
- Present address:
North Atlanta Ears, Nose, Throat & AllergyAlpharettaGeorgia
| | - Anthony T. Cacace
- Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Wayne State University, DetroitMichigan
| | - Amy Arnold
- The Hearing Clinic, BrightonMichigan
- Present address:
The Hearing ClinicBrightonMichigan
| | - Michael D. Seidman
- Florida ENT Surgical Specialists, Florida Hospital Medical Group, Head & Neck Surgery Center of Florida, CelebrationFlorida
- Present address:
Florida Hospital Medical GroupHead & Neck Surgery Center of FloridaCelebrationFlorida
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Xiong J, Cao Y, Yang W, Chen Z, Yu Q. Can we predict response to vagus nerve stimulation in intractable epilepsy. Int J Neurosci 2020; 130:1063-1070. [PMID: 31914344 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1713777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A number of studies show that VNS was effective to reduce seizure frequency. However, there was still some patients treated with VNS having poor or even no clinical effect. OBJECTIVES The purpose of the present review was to identify factors predicting the effect of VNS therapy and to select patients suitable for VNS treatment. METHOD PubMed and Medline was searched with this terms "epilepsy," "vagus nerve stimulation," "vagal nerve stimulation," "VNS," "intractable," and "refractory".We selected studies by predefining inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS the effectiveness of VNA was confirmed by a number of studies. We find many studies exploring the predictive factors to VNS. However there was no any study finding factors correlating clearly with the outcome of VNS. Although, we find these factors, such as post-traumatic epilepsy, temporal lobe epilepsy and focal interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), were favorable for the treatment of VNS, while comprehensive IEDs and neuronal migration disorders were indicative of the poor effect. Also, temporal lobe epilepsy was generally effectively controlled by this therapy and yougers seemed to get more benefit from VNS. Additionally, other indexes, such as cytokine profile, slow cortical potential (SCP) shift, preoperative heart rate variability (HRV), EEG reactivity and connectomic profiling, maybe predict the results of VNS. CONCLUSION In summary, these conventional and other new factors should be analyzed further by more science and rigorous experimental design to identify the clear correlation with the outcome of VNS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinbiao Xiong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yiyao Cao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Weidong Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhijuan Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qing Yu
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Broncel A, Bocian R, Kłos-Wojtczak P, Kulbat-Warycha K, Konopacki J. Vagal nerve stimulation as a promising tool in the improvement of cognitive disorders. Brain Res Bull 2020; 155:37-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Pérez-Carbonell L, Faulkner H, Higgins S, Koutroumanidis M, Leschziner G. Vagus nerve stimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy. Pract Neurol 2019; 20:189-198. [PMID: 31892545 DOI: 10.1136/practneurol-2019-002210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulatory therapeutic option for drug-resistant epilepsy. In randomised controlled trials, VNS implantation has resulted in over 50% reduction in seizure frequency in 26%-40% of patients within 1 year. Long-term uncontrolled studies suggest better responses to VNS over time; however, the assessment of other potential predictive factors has led to contradictory results. Although initially designed for managing focal seizures, its use has been extended to other forms of drug-resistant epilepsy. In this review, we discuss the evidence supporting the use of VNS, its impact on seizure frequency and quality of life, and common adverse effects of this therapy. We also include practical guidance for the approach to and the management of patients with VNS in situ.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sean Higgins
- Sleep Disorders Centre, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Guy Leschziner
- Sleep Disorders Centre, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Neurology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Brodtkorb E, Samsonsen C, Jørgensen JV, Helde G. Epilepsy patients with and without perceived benefit from vagus nerve stimulation: A long-term observational single center study. Seizure 2019; 72:28-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Starnes K, Miller K, Wong-Kisiel L, Lundstrom BN. A Review of Neurostimulation for Epilepsy in Pediatrics. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9100283. [PMID: 31635298 PMCID: PMC6826633 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9100283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurostimulation for epilepsy refers to the application of electricity to affect the central nervous system, with the goal of reducing seizure frequency and severity. We review the available evidence for the use of neurostimulation to treat pediatric epilepsy, including vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), chronic subthreshold cortical stimulation (CSCS), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). We consider possible mechanisms of action and safety concerns, and we propose a methodology for selecting between available options. In general, we find neurostimulation is safe and effective, although any high quality evidence applying neurostimulation to pediatrics is lacking. Further research is needed to understand neuromodulatory systems, and to identify biomarkers of response in order to establish optimal stimulation paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Starnes
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Kai Miller
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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41
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Janmohamed M, Brodie MJ, Kwan P. Pharmacoresistance - Epidemiology, mechanisms, and impact on epilepsy treatment. Neuropharmacology 2019; 168:107790. [PMID: 31560910 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the natural history of and factors associated with pharmacoresistant epilepsy provides the foundation for formulating mechanistic hypotheses that can be evaluated to drive the development of novel treatments. This article reviews the modern definition of drug-resistant epilepsy, its prevalence and incidence, risk factors, hypothesized mechanisms, and the implication of recognizing pharmacoresistance in therapeutic strategies. This article is part of the special issue entitled 'New Epilepsy Therapies for the 21st Century - From Antiseizure Drugs to Prevention, Modification and Cure of Epilepsy'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubeen Janmohamed
- Department of Neuroscience, Alfred Hospital, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Patrick Kwan
- Department of Neuroscience, Alfred Hospital, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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42
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Mithani K, Mikhail M, Morgan BR, Wong S, Weil AG, Deschenes S, Wang S, Bernal B, Guillen MR, Ochi A, Otsubo H, Yau I, Lo W, Pang E, Holowka S, Snead OC, Donner E, Rutka JT, Go C, Widjaja E, Ibrahim GM. Connectomic Profiling Identifies Responders to Vagus Nerve Stimulation. Ann Neurol 2019; 86:743-753. [DOI: 10.1002/ana.25574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karim Mithani
- The Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Mirriam Mikhail
- The Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | | | - Simeon Wong
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Alexander G. Weil
- Division of NeurosurgerySaint Justine University Hospital Center, University of Montreal Montreal, Quebec Canada
| | - Sylvain Deschenes
- Division of NeurosurgerySaint Justine University Hospital Center, University of Montreal Montreal, Quebec Canada
| | - Shelly Wang
- Division of Neurosurgery, Brain InstituteNicklaus Children's Hospital Miami FL
| | - Byron Bernal
- Department of RadiologyNicklaus Children's Hospital Miami FL
| | | | - Ayako Ochi
- Division of NeurologyHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Hiroshi Otsubo
- Division of NeurologyHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Ivanna Yau
- Division of NeurologyHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - William Lo
- Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Department of SurgeryUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Elizabeth Pang
- Division of NeurologyHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Stephanie Holowka
- Department of Diagnostic ImagingHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - O. Carter Snead
- Division of NeurologyHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Elizabeth Donner
- Division of NeurologyHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - James T. Rutka
- Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Department of SurgeryUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Cristina Go
- Division of NeurologyHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Elysa Widjaja
- Department of Diagnostic ImagingHospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - George M. Ibrahim
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Department of SurgeryUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
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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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Roland JL, Smyth MD. Recent advances in the neurosurgical treatment of pediatric epilepsy: JNSPG 75th Anniversary Invited Review Article. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2019; 23:411-421. [PMID: 30970205 DOI: 10.3171/2018.12.peds18350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The field of epilepsy surgery has seen tremendous growth in recent years. Innovative new devices have driven much of this growth, but some has been driven by revisions of existing products. Devices have also helped to rejuvenate existing procedures, as in the case of robotic assistance for electrode placement for stereo-electroencephalography, and these devices have brought significant attention along with their introduction. Other devices, such as responsive neurostimulators or laser interstitial thermal therapy systems, have introduced novel treatment modalities and broadened the surgical indications. Collectively, these advances are rapidly changing much of the landscape in the world of pediatric neurosurgery for medically refractory epilepsy. The foundations for indications for neurosurgical intervention are well supported in strong research data, which has also been expanded in recent years. In this article, the authors review advances in the neurosurgical treatment of pediatric epilepsy, beginning with trials that have repeatedly demonstrated the value of neurosurgical procedures for medically refractory epilepsy and following with several recent advances that are largely focused on less-invasive intervention. ABBREVIATIONS AED = antiepileptic drug; ANT = anterior nucleus of the thalamus; BOLD = blood oxygen level dependent; CCEP = cortico-cortical evoked potential; DBS = deep brain stimulation; ECoG = electrocorticography; ERSET = Early Randomized Surgical Epilepsy Trial; FCD = focal cortical dysplasia; HH = hypothalamic hamartoma; LITT = laser interstitial thermal therapy; RCT = randomized controlled trial; r-fMRI = resting-state functional MRI; RNS = responsive neurostimulation; SEEG = stereo-electroencephalography; VNS = vagus nerve stimulation.
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Schulze-Bonhage A. Long-term outcome in neurostimulation of epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 91:25-29. [PMID: 30929666 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
For patients with pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy, neurostimulation offers nonpharmacological strategies to improve seizure control. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation of the anterior thalamic nuclei, and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) are approved therapies which have shown efficacy in randomized short-term trials. Controlled data from prospective studies are needed to confirm reports on stable or even increasing evidence from studies with longer follow-up and to confirm that neurostimulation may offer advantages also regarding cognitive tolerability and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP)-risk. Here, a review of long-term outcomes is given, highlighting both achievements in terms of efficacy and tolerability and limitations of conclusions thereon related to an uncontrolled data basis and decreasing cohort sizes. This article is part of the Special Issue? "Individualized Epilepsy Management: Medicines, Surgery and Beyond".
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schulze-Bonhage
- Epilepsy Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany.
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46
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Ji T, Yang Z, Liu Q, Liao J, Yin F, Chen Y, Zou L, Li B, Gao Y, Shu X, Huang S, Gao F, Liang J, Lin SF, Peng J, Song S, Wang J, Che C, Sun W, Tian M, Yang L, Hua Y, Hao Y, Cai L, Li L, Jiang Y. Vagus nerve stimulation for pediatric patients with intractable epilepsy between 3 and 6 years of age: study protocol for a double-blind, randomized control trial. Trials 2019; 20:44. [PMID: 30642370 PMCID: PMC6332620 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-3087-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent clinical observations have reported the potential benefit of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as an adjunctive therapy for pediatric epilepsy. Preliminary evidence suggests that VNS treatment is effective for seizure reduction and mental development in young participants between 3 and 6 years of age who suffer from intractable epilepsy. However, robust clinical evidence for quantifying the difference of the efficacy and safety of VNS treatment in this specific patient population has yet to be reported. METHODS/DESIGN A two-armed, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, prospective trial will be carried out to evaluate whether VNS is beneficial and safe for pediatric epilepsy. Pediatric participants aged between 3 to 6 years old with intractable epilepsy will be recruited and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups with a 1:1 allocation using a computer-generating randomization schedule. Before enrollment, informed consent will be signed by the parents of the participants and the study researchers. Participants in the experimental group will receive electrical stimulation over 24 weeks under standard stimulation parameters. Participants in the control group will not receive any stimulation during the 12 weeks of the double-blind period. The guardians of the participants are required to keep a detailed diary to record seizure activity. Outcome assessments including seizure frequency, Gesell Mental Developmental Scale scores, use of antiepileptic drugs and dosages, and adverse events will be collected at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and/or 24 weeks after electrical stimulation is initiated. The effects of treatment will be analyzed with time and treatment group comparisons. DISCUSSION This trial will evaluate quantitative differences in efficacy and safety with/without VNS treatment for pediatric participants aged between 3 to 6 years with intractable epilepsy and will explore whether the current age range of VNS therapy can be expanded. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03062514 , Registered on 23 February 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoyun Ji
- 0000 0004 1764 1621grid.411472.5Division of Pediatric Neurology, Pediatrics Department, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi’an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034 China
- 0000 0004 1764 1621grid.411472.5Department of Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi’an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034 China
| | - Zhao Yang
- 0000 0001 0662 3178grid.12527.33National Engineering Laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- 0000 0004 1764 1621grid.411472.5Department of Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi’an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034 China
| | - Jianxiang Liao
- 0000 0004 1806 5224grid.452787.bDepartment of Neurology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fei Yin
- 0000 0004 1757 7615grid.452223.0Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center of Children, Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Yanhui Chen
- 0000 0004 1758 0478grid.411176.4Division of Pediatric Neurology, Pediatrics Department, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- 0000 0004 1758 0478grid.411176.4Department of Epilepsy Center, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liping Zou
- 0000 0004 1761 8894grid.414252.4Department of Pediatric, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Baomin Li
- grid.452402.5Pediatics Department, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Yuxing Gao
- 0000 0004 1769 9639grid.460018.bDivision of Pediatrics Neurology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaomei Shu
- grid.413390.cDepartment of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou China
| | - Shaoping Huang
- grid.452672.0Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Feng Gao
- grid.411360.1Department of Neurology, The Children’s Hospital, ZheJiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianmin Liang
- grid.452451.3Department of Pediatric Neurology, First Bethune Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- grid.452451.3Research Center of Neuroscience, First Bethune Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Su Fang Lin
- 0000 0004 1806 5224grid.452787.bDepartment of Neurology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Peng
- 0000 0004 1757 7615grid.452223.0Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center of Children, Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Shiwei Song
- 0000 0004 1758 0478grid.411176.4Department of Epilepsy Center, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- 0000 0004 1758 0478grid.411176.4Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jing Wang
- 0000 0004 1761 8894grid.414252.4Department of Pediatric, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Che
- grid.452402.5Pediatics Department, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Wenxiu Sun
- 0000 0004 1769 9639grid.460018.bDivision of Pediatrics Neurology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Maoqiang Tian
- grid.413390.cDepartment of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou China
| | - Lin Yang
- grid.452672.0Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yi Hua
- grid.411360.1Department of Neurology, The Children’s Hospital, ZheJiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunpeng Hao
- grid.452451.3Department of Pediatric Neurology, First Bethune Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lixin Cai
- 0000 0004 1764 1621grid.411472.5Department of Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi’an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034 China
| | - Luming Li
- 0000 0001 0662 3178grid.12527.33National Engineering Laboratory for Neuromodulation, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- 0000 0001 0662 3178grid.12527.33Man-Machine-Environment Engineering Institute, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Room_204, North Part, Mengminwei Technology Building, Beijing, 100084 China
- grid.499361.0Precision Medicine and Healthcare Research Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, China
- 0000 0004 0369 153Xgrid.24696.3fCenter of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, 100069 China
| | - Yuwu Jiang
- 0000 0004 1764 1621grid.411472.5Division of Pediatric Neurology, Pediatrics Department, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi’an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034 China
- 0000 0004 1764 1621grid.411472.5Department of Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, No.1 Xi’an Men Street, West District, Beijing, 100034 China
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Lim Z, Wong K, Downs J, Bebbington K, Demarest S, Leonard H. Vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of refractory epilepsy in the CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder. Epilepsy Res 2018; 146:36-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2018.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Epilepsy and Neuromodulation-Randomized Controlled Trials. Brain Sci 2018; 8:brainsci8040069. [PMID: 29670050 PMCID: PMC5924405 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8040069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromodulation is a treatment strategy that is increasingly being utilized in those suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy who are not appropriate for resective surgery. The number of double-blinded RCTs demonstrating the efficacy of neurostimulation in persons with epilepsy is increasing. Although reductions in seizure frequency is common in these trials, obtaining seizure freedom is rare. Invasive neuromodulation procedures (DBS, VNS, and RNS) have been approved as therapeutic measures. However, further investigations are necessary to delineate effective targeting, minimize side effects that are related to chronic implantation and to improve the cost effectiveness of these devices. The RCTs of non-invasive modes of neuromodulation whilst showing much promise (tDCS, eTNS, rTMS), require larger powered studies as well as studies that focus at better targeting techniques. We provide a review of double-blinded randomized clinical trials that have been conducted for neuromodulation in epilepsy.
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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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Abstract
While open surgical resection for medically refractory epilepsy remains the gold standard in current neurosurgical practice, modern techniques have targeted areas for improvement over open surgical resection. This review focuses on how a variety of these new techniques are attempting to address these various limitations. Stereotactic electroencephalography offers the possibility of localizing deep epileptic foci, improving upon subdural grid placement which limits localization to neocortical regions. Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) and stereotactic radiosurgery can minimally or non-invasively ablate specific regions of interest, with near real-time feedback for laser interstitial thermal therapy. Finally, neurostimulation offers the possibility of seizure reduction without needing to ablate or resect any tissue. However, because these techniques are still being evaluated in current practice, there are no evidence-based guidelines for their use, and more research is required to fully evaluate their proper role in the current management of medically refractory epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A McGovern
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 710 W. 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Garrett P Banks
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 710 W. 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Guy M McKhann
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 710 W. 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
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