1
|
Lim T, Anderson S, Stocum R, Ren K, Singleton W, Vallabh J, Noon K, Weaver T. Neuromodulation for the Sphenopalatine Ganglion-a Narrative Review. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:645-651. [PMID: 37610504 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01132-3] [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] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an integrated overview of the current state of knowledge of neuromodulation for the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) by reviewing relevant and significant literature. RECENT FINDINGS There are several case reports and clinical trials evaluating neuromodulation for the SPG. We identified two blinded, randomized clinical trials for patients with chronic cluster headache. The randomized trials and additional studies demonstrated the long-term safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of neuromodulation for the SPG. Recent studies in Europe and the USA suggest that SPG neuromodulation is a novel modality with clinical importance for treating acute cluster headaches and reducing the frequency of attacks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taehong Lim
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stephen Anderson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Robert Stocum
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Karen Ren
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Winston Singleton
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jayesh Vallabh
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kristen Noon
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tristan Weaver
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Al-Karagholi MAM, Peng KP, Petersen AS, De Boer I, Terwindt GM, Ashina M. Debate: Are cluster headache and migraine distinct headache disorders? J Headache Pain 2022; 23:151. [PMID: 36447146 PMCID: PMC9706960 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-022-01504-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cluster headache and migraine are regarded as distinct primary headaches. While cluster headache and migraine differ in multiple aspects such as gender-related and headache specific features (e.g., attack duration and frequency), both show clinical similarities in trigger factors (e.g., alcohol) and treatment response (e.g., triptans). Here, we review the similarities and differences in anatomy and pathophysiology that underlie cluster headache and migraine, discuss whether cluster headache and migraine should indeed be considered as two distinct primary headaches, and propose recommendations for future studies. Video recording of the debate held at the 1st International Conference on Advances in Migraine Sciences (ICAMS 2022, Copenhagen, Denmark) is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUimmnDVTTE .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Al-Mahdi Al-Karagholi
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDanish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Valdemar Hansen Vej 5, DK-2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Kuan-Po Peng
- grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anja Sofie Petersen
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDanish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Valdemar Hansen Vej 5, DK-2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Irene De Boer
- grid.10419.3d0000000089452978Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Gisela M. Terwindt
- grid.10419.3d0000000089452978Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Messoud Ashina
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDanish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Valdemar Hansen Vej 5, DK-2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
O’Connell S, Dale M, Morgan H, Carter K, Morris R, Carolan-Rees G. gammaCore for Cluster Headaches: A NICE Medical Technologies Guidance. PHARMACOECONOMICS - OPEN 2021; 5:577-586. [PMID: 34322861 PMCID: PMC8611122 DOI: 10.1007/s41669-021-00276-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cluster headaches are excruciating attacks of pain that can last between 15 min and 3 h. Cluster headaches can be episodic, where patients have long pain-free intervals between attacks, or chronic, where they do not. As part of the Medical Technologies Evaluation Programme, the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) considered the clinical effectiveness and cost impact of gammaCore (electroCore), a handheld, patient-controlled device used to treat and prevent cluster headache. gammaCore is a non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator, the aim of which is to modify pain signals by stimulating the vagus nerve through the skin of the neck. Evidence suggests that gammaCore reduces the intensity and frequency of cluster headaches and that the addition of gammaCore to standard care is cost saving. Therefore, the guidance published by NICE in December 2019 recommends routine adoption of gammaCore into the UK national health service. However, the guidance noted that gammaCore does not work for everyone and recommended that treatment with gammaCore should stop after 3 months in patients whose symptoms do not improve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan O’Connell
- Cedar, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Megan Dale
- Cedar, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Kimberley Carter
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, Manchester, UK
| | - Rhys Morris
- Cedar, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Neuromodulation in headache and craniofacial neuralgia: Guidelines from the Spanish Society of Neurology and the Spanish Society of Neurosurgery. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2020.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
|
5
|
Belvís R, Irimia P, Seijo-Fernández F, Paz J, García-March G, Santos-Lasaosa S, Latorre G, González-Oria C, Rodríguez R, Pozo-Rosich P, Láinez JM. Neuromodulation in headache and craniofacial neuralgia: guidelines from the Spanish Society of Neurology and the Spanish Society of Neurosurgery. Neurologia 2020; 36:61-79. [PMID: 32718873 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2020.04.022] [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: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous invasive and non-invasive neuromodulation devices have been developed and applied to patients with headache and neuralgia in recent years. However, no updated review addresses their safety and efficacy, and no healthcare institution has issued specific recommendations on their use for these 2 conditions. METHODS Neurologists from the Spanish Society of Neurology's (SEN) Headache Study Group and neurosurgeons specialising in functional neurosurgery, selected by the Spanish Society of Neurosurgery (SENEC), performed a comprehensive review of articles on the MEDLINE database addressing the use of the technique in patients with headache and neuralgia. RESULTS We present an updated review and establish the first set of consensus recommendations of the SEN and SENC on the use of neuromodulation to treat headache and neuralgia, analysing the current levels of evidence on its effectiveness for each specific condition. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence supports the indication of neuromodulation techniques for patients with refractory headache and neuralgia (especially migraine, cluster headache, and trigeminal neuralgia) selected by neurologists and headache specialists, after pharmacological treatment options are exhausted. Furthermore, we recommend that invasive neuromodulation be debated by multidisciplinary committees, and that the procedure be performed by teams of neurosurgeons specialising in functional neurosurgery, with acceptable rates of morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Belvís
- Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España
| | - P Irimia
- Clínica Universitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, España.
| | | | - J Paz
- Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, España
| | | | | | - G Latorre
- Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Madrid, España
| | | | - R Rodríguez
- Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España
| | | | - J M Láinez
- Hospital Clínico Universitario, Valencia, España
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Schmerzärzte dürfen nicht wegsehen: Was passiert bei Ausfall eines Medizinprodukteherstellers? Schmerz 2020; 34:282-284. [DOI: 10.1007/s00482-020-00470-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
7
|
The need for continued care after sponsor closure. Lancet Neurol 2020; 19:205. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(20)30023-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
8
|
Goadsby PJ, Sahai-Srivastava S, Kezirian EJ, Calhoun AH, Matthews DC, McAllister PJ, Costantino PD, Friedman DI, Zuniga JR, Mechtler LL, Popat SR, Rezai AR, Dodick DW. Safety and efficacy of sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation for chronic cluster headache: a double-blind, randomised controlled trial. Lancet Neurol 2019; 18:1081-1090. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(19)30322-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
9
|
Tolba R, Weiss AL, Denis DJ. Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block and Radiofrequency Ablation: Technical Notes and Efficacy. Ochsner J 2019; 19:32-37. [PMID: 30983899 PMCID: PMC6447206 DOI: 10.31486/toj.18.0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) blockade or lesioning can offer significant pain relief for cluster headaches (CHs) and a variety of other pain syndromes involving the head and face. Methods: We reviewed the literature on the efficacy of SPG block and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) using PubMed and Google Scholar. Results: The infrazygomatic technique can be used to directly access the SPG for injection of local anesthetic or lesioning using RFA. Important technical points to achieve these procedures are described. SPG blockade efficacy is supported by randomized controlled studies but SPG RFA is not. Conclusion: Targeting the SPG is a promising treatment option for refractory CHs. RFA and neuromodulation have the potential to offer long-term significant pain relief, but more randomized studies are needed to demonstrate their efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reda Tolba
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Austin L. Weiss
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Daniel J. Denis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA
- The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine, Ochsner Clinical School, New Orleans, LA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pietzsch JB, Weber SA, Lund N, Gaul C. Changes in medication cost observed in chronic cluster headache patients treated with sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) stimulation: Analysis based on 1-year data from the Pathway R-1 Registry. Cephalalgia 2018; 38:1455-1462. [PMID: 29921140 DOI: 10.1177/0333102418784689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background On-demand stimulation of the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) by means of an implantable neurostimulation system has been shown to be a safe and effective therapy for treatment-refractory cluster headache patients. Our objective was to estimate changes in cluster headache medication cost observed in SPG-treated chronic patients. Methods Detailed patient-level data of 71 chronic patients treated with the Pulsante® SPG Microstimulator System were available from the Pathway R-1 Registry through 12 months' follow-up. We used utilization data of preventive and acute medications reported at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months to estimate annualized drug costs for SPG-treated patients and compared it to baseline. Cost estimates for all drug/dosage combinations were developed based on German medication prices for 2016. Results In the base case analysis, mean annual acute and preventive medication costs decreased from €14,178 to €6924 (-€7254; -51%), and €559 to €328 (-€231; -41%), respectively, leading to total estimated annual drug cost savings of €7484, 97% of which were attributable to acute medications. Conclusions Our analysis suggests that SPG stimulation for the treatment of chronic cluster headache is associated with pronounced reductions in cluster headache medication usage that might lead to sizable annual savings in medication costs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nunu Lund
- 3 University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charly Gaul
- 4 Migraine and Headache Clinic Königstein, Königstein im Taunus, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Cluster headache is an excruciating, strictly one-sided pain syndrome with attacks that last between 15 minutes and 180 minutes and that are accompanied by marked ipsilateral cranial autonomic symptoms, such as lacrimation and conjunctival injection. The pain is so severe that female patients describe each attack as worse than childbirth. The past decade has seen remarkable progress in the understanding of the pathophysiological background of cluster headache and has implicated the brain, particularly the hypothalamus, as the generator of both the pain and the autonomic symptoms. Anatomical connections between the hypothalamus and the trigeminovascular system, as well as the parasympathetic nervous system, have also been implicated in cluster headache pathophysiology. The diagnosis of cluster headache involves excluding other primary headaches and secondary headaches and is based primarily on the patient's symptoms. Remarkable progress has been achieved in developing effective treatment options for single cluster attacks and in developing preventive measures, which include pharmacological therapies and neuromodulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arne May
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Delphine Magis
- University Department of Neurology CHR, CHU de Liege, Belgium
| | - Patricia Pozo-Rosich
- Headache and Craniofacial Pain Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Headache Research Group, VHIR, Universitat Autònoma Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stefan Evers
- Department of Neurology, Krankenhaus Lindenbrunn, Coppenbrügge, Germany
| | - Shuu-Jiun Wang
- Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Barloese M, Petersen A, Stude P, Jürgens T, Jensen RH, May A. Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation for cluster headache, results from a large, open-label European registry. J Headache Pain 2018; 19:6. [PMID: 29349561 PMCID: PMC5773459 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-017-0828-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cluster headache (CH) is a disabling primary headache disorder characterized by severe periorbital pain. A subset of patients does not respond to established pharmacological therapy. This study examines outcomes of a cohort of mainly chronic CH patients treated with sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) stimulation. Methods Patients were followed in an open-label prospective study for 12 months. Ninety-seven CH patients (88 chronic, 9 episodic) underwent trans-oral insertion of a microstimulator targeting the SPG. Patients recorded stimulation effect prospectively for individual attacks. Frequency, use of preventive and acute medications, headache impact (HIT-6) and quality of life measures (SF-36v2) were monitored at clinic visits. Per protocol, frequency responders experienced ≥ 50% reduction in attack frequency and acute responders treated ≥ 50% of attacks. HIT-6 responders experienced an improvement ≥ 2.3 units and SF-36 responders ≥ 4 units vs. baseline. Results Eighty-five patients (78 chronic, 7 episodic) remained implanted and were evaluated for effectiveness at 12 months. In total, 68% of all patients were responders, 55% of chronic patients were frequency responders and 32% of all patients were acute responders. 67% of patients using acute treatments were able to reduce the use of these by 52% and 74% of chronic patients were able to stop, reduce or remain off all preventive medications. 59% of all patients were HIT-6 responders, 67% were SF-36 responders. Conclusions This open-label registry corroborates that SPG stimulation is an effective therapy for CH patients providing therapeutic benefits and improvements in use of medication as well as headache impact and quality of life. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s10194-017-0828-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mads Barloese
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine and PET, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark. .,Danish Headache Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark.
| | - Anja Petersen
- Danish Headache Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Philipp Stude
- Schmerztherapie, Geriatrie und Palliativmedizin, Bochum, Kurt-Schumacher-Platz, 11-12 44787, Bochum, Germany
| | - Tim Jürgens
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, Gehlsherimer Str. 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- Danish Headache Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Arne May
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, Universitäts-Klinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yang FC, Chou KH, Kuo CY, Lin YY, Lin CP, Wang SJ. The pathophysiology of episodic cluster headache: Insights from recent neuroimaging research. Cephalalgia 2017; 38:970-983. [DOI: 10.1177/0333102417716932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Cluster headache is a disorder characterized by intermittent, severe unilateral head pain accompanied by cranial autonomic symptoms. Most cases of CH are episodic, manifesting as “in-bout” periods of frequent headache separated by month-to-year-long “out-of-bout” periods of remission. Previous imaging studies have implicated the hypothalamus and pain matrix in the pathogenesis of episodic CH. However, the pathophysiology driving the transition between in- and out-of-bout periods remains unclear. Methods The present study provides a narrative review of previous neuroimaging studies on the pathophysiology of episodic CH, addressing alterations in brain structures, metabolism, and structural and functional connectivity occurring between bout periods. Results Although the precise brain structures responsible for episodic CH are unknown, major roles are indicated for the posterior hypothalamus (especially in acute attacks), the pain neuromatrix with an emphasis on central descending pain modulation, and non-traditional pain processing networks including the occipital, cerebellar, and salience networks. These areas are potentially related to dynamic transitioning between in- and out-of-bout periods. Conclusion Recent progress in magnetic resonance imaging of episodic CH has provided additional insights into dynamic bout-associated structural and functional connectivity changes in the brain, especially in non-traditional pain processing network areas. These areas warrant future investigations as targets for neuromodulation in patients with CH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Chi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Hsien Chou
- Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yuan Kuo
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Yang Lin
- Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan
- Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Po Lin
- Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
| | - Shuu-Jiun Wang
- Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan
- Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jürgens TP, Barloese M, May A, Láinez JM, Schoenen J, Gaul C, Goodman AM, Caparso A, Jensen RH. Long-term effectiveness of sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation for cluster headache. Cephalalgia 2016; 37:423-434. [PMID: 27165493 PMCID: PMC5405839 DOI: 10.1177/0333102416649092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) plays a pivotal role in cluster headache (CH) pathophysiology as the major efferent parasympathetic relay. We evaluated the long-term effectiveness of SPG stimulation in medically refractory, chronic CH patients. Methods Thirty-three patients were enrolled in an open-label follow-up study of the original Pathway CH-1 study, and participated through 24 months post-insertion of a microstimulator. Response to therapy was defined as acute effectiveness in ≥ 50% of attacks or a ≥ 50% reduction in attack frequency versus baseline. Results In total, 5956 attacks (180.5 ± 344.8, range 2–1581 per patient) were evaluated. At 24 months, 45% (n = 15) of patients were acute responders. Among acute responders, a total of 4340 attacks had been treated, and in 78% of these, effective therapy was achieved using only SPG stimulation (relief from moderate or greater pain or freedom from mild pain or greater). A frequency response was observed in 33% (n = 11) of patients with a mean reduction of attack frequency of 83% versus baseline. In total, 61% (20/33) of all patients were either acute or frequency responders or both. The majority maintained their therapeutic response through the 24-month evaluation. Conclusions In the population of disabled, medically refractory chronic CH patients treated in this study, SPG stimulation is an effective acute therapy in 45% of patients, offering sustained effectiveness over 24 months of observation. In addition, a maintained, clinically relevant reduction of attack frequency was observed in a third of patients. These long-term data provide support for the use of SPG stimulation for disabled patients and should be considered after medical treatments fail, are not tolerated or are inconvenient for the patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim P Jürgens
- 1 Department of Systems Neuroscience, Universitäts-Klinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,2 Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Mads Barloese
- 3 Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine and Pet, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Arne May
- 1 Department of Systems Neuroscience, Universitäts-Klinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jose Miguel Láinez
- 4 Department of Neurology, Hospital Clinico Universitario, Universidad Católica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jean Schoenen
- 5 Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology - CHR Citadelle, Liège University, Liège, Belgium
| | - Charly Gaul
- 6 Migraine and Headache Clinic Königstein, Königstein, Germany
| | - Amy M Goodman
- 7 Clinical Research, Autonomic Technologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Anthony Caparso
- 7 Clinical Research, Autonomic Technologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- 8 Danish Headache Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Morris J, Straube A, Diener HC, Ahmed F, Silver N, Walker S, Liebler E, Gaul C. Cost-effectiveness analysis of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of chronic cluster headache. J Headache Pain 2016; 17:43. [PMID: 27102120 PMCID: PMC4840129 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-016-0633-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cluster headache (CH) is a debilitating condition that is generally associated with substantial health care costs. Few therapies are approved for abortive or prophylactic treatment. Results from the prospective, randomised, open-label PREVA study suggested that adjunctive treatment with a novel non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) device led to decreased attack frequency and abortive medication use in patients with chronic CH (cCH). Herein, we evaluate whether nVNS is cost-effective compared with the current standard of care (SoC) for cCH. Methods A pharmacoeconomic model from the German statutory health insurance perspective was developed to estimate the 1-year cost-effectiveness of nVNS + SoC (versus SoC alone) using data from PREVA. Short-term treatment response data were taken from the clinical trial; longer-term response was modelled under scenarios of response maintenance, constant rate of response loss, and diminishing rate of response loss. Health-related quality of life was estimated by modelling EQ-5D™ data from PREVA; benefits were defined as quality-adjusted life-years (QALY). Abortive medication use data from PREVA, along with costs for the nVNS device and abortive therapies (i.e. intranasal zolmitriptan, subcutaneous sumatriptan, and inhaled oxygen), were used to assess health care costs in the German setting. Results The analysis resulted in mean expected yearly costs of €7096.69 for nVNS + SoC and €7511.35 for SoC alone and mean QALY of 0.607 for nVNS + SoC and 0.522 for SoC alone, suggesting that nVNS generates greater health benefits for lower overall cost. Abortive medication costs were 23 % lower with nVNS + SoC than with SoC alone. In the alternative scenarios (i.e. constant rate of response loss and diminishing rate of response loss), nVNS + SoC was more effective and cost saving than SoC alone. Conclusions In all scenarios modelled from a German perspective, nVNS was cost-effective compared with current SoC, which suggests that adjunctive nVNS therapy provides economic benefits in the treatment of cCH. Notably, the current analysis included only costs associated with abortive treatments. Treatment with nVNS will likely promote further economic benefit when other potential sources of cost savings (e.g. reduced frequency of clinic visits) are considered. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT01701245, 03OCT2012.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Morris
- Cogentia Healthcare Consulting Ltd., Richmond House, 16-20 Regent Street, Cambridge, CB2 1DB, UK.
| | - Andreas Straube
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Marchioninistr 15, Munich, D81377, Germany
| | - Hans-Christoph Diener
- Department of Neurology and Headache Center, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Fayyaz Ahmed
- Hull and Yorkshire Hospitals, Hull Royal Infirmary, Anlaby Road, Hull, HU3 2JZ, UK
| | - Nicholas Silver
- The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool, L9 7LJ, UK
| | - Simon Walker
- Cogentia Healthcare Consulting Ltd., Richmond House, 16-20 Regent Street, Cambridge, CB2 1DB, UK
| | - Eric Liebler
- electroCore, LLC, 150 Allen Road, Suite 201, Basking Ridge, NJ, 07920, USA
| | - Charly Gaul
- Department of Neurology and Headache Center, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany.,Migraine and Headache Clinic Königstein, Ölmühlweg 31, 61462, Königstein im Taunus, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Androulakis XM, Krebs KA, Ashkenazi A. Hemicrania continua may respond to repetitive sphenopalatine ganglion block: A case report. Headache 2016; 56:573-9. [PMID: 26926875 DOI: 10.1111/head.12783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemicrania continua (HC) is a chronic headache disorder characterized by a continuous, strictly unilateral head pain accompanied by cranial autonomic symptoms, which completely responds to indomethacin; however, few alternative treatment options exist for the patients with this disorder who cannot tolerate indomethacin. Sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block has been used for the treatment of various headaches, with the strongest evidence for efficacy in cluster headache. CASE REPORT A 52-year-old woman with a 7-year history of HC was evaluated in our clinic for management of her headaches after she had stopped using indomethacin due to a bleeding gastrointestinal ulcer. After failing multiple pharmacologic therapies, she was treated with repetitive SPG blocks using bupivacaine (0.6 mL at 0.5%) twice a week for 6 weeks and followed by maintenance therapy. This treatment protocol resulted in significant improvement in her headaches, mood, and functional capacity. CONCLUSION SPG block using a local anesthetic may be an effective treatment for patients with HC, specifically for those who cannot tolerate indomethacin, or when this drug is contraindicated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X Michelle Androulakis
- School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Kaitlin A Krebs
- School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Avi Ashkenazi
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), Doylestown Hospital, Doylestown, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Robbins MS, Robertson CE, Kaplan E, Ailani J, Charleston L, Kuruvilla D, Blumenfeld A, Berliner R, Rosen NL, Duarte R, Vidwan J, Halker RB, Gill N, Ashkenazi A. The Sphenopalatine Ganglion: Anatomy, Pathophysiology, and Therapeutic Targeting in Headache. Headache 2015; 56:240-58. [DOI: 10.1111/head.12729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S. Robbins
- Montefiore Headache Center; Bronx NY USA
- Department of Neurology; Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine; Bronx NY USA
| | | | - Eugene Kaplan
- The Kaplan Headache Center, Optimum Health Medical Group, PLLC; Clifton Park NY USA
| | - Jessica Ailani
- Department of Neurology; Medstar Georgetown University Medical Center; Washington DC USA
| | - Larry Charleston
- Department of Neurology; University of Michigan Health System; Ann Arbor MI USA
| | - Deena Kuruvilla
- Department of Neurology; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven CT USA
| | | | - Randall Berliner
- Department of Neurology; Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine; Bronx NY USA
| | - Noah L. Rosen
- Pain and Headache Center, Cushing Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neurology, Hofstra North Shore LIJ Medical Center; Manhasset NY USA
| | - Robert Duarte
- Pain and Headache Center, Cushing Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neurology, Hofstra North Shore LIJ Medical Center; Manhasset NY USA
| | | | | | | | - Avi Ashkenazi
- Department of Medicine (Neurology); Doylestown Hospital; Doylestown PA USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Martelletti P, Mitsikostas DD. Cluster headache: a quasi-rare disorder needing a reappraisal. J Headache Pain 2015; 16:59. [PMID: 26113477 PMCID: PMC4480266 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-015-0545-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Martelletti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|