Abstract
BackgroundResponsive neurostimulation (RNS) is used off-label in pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Our study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of RNS in pediatric and young adult patients with focal, multifocal, and generalized DRE. MethodsAll patients who underwent RNS implantation at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City, UT, between December 2017 and 2022. ResultsA total of 47 patients were retrospectively identified, of which 32 patients were included in the final analysis. Patients ranged in age from five to 21 years (pediatric n = 22, young adult n = 10) at the time of RNS implantation with focal (20 [63%]), multifocal (8 [25%]), and generalized (4 [12%]) DRE. Operative complications (3 [9%]) and negative side effects (6 [19%]) were minor. At the time of most recent clinic visit (mean 18.6 months, S.D. 13.9), 19 of 32 patients (59%) were responders with ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency (pediatric n = 14, young adult n = 5). The rate of responders increased with prolonged activation of RNS stimulation, reaching 71% (five of seven patients) after 24 months. Antiseizure medication was reduced in five (16%) patients, and seizure rescue medication usage was reduced in 10 (31%) patients. Quality of life improved in 15 (47%) patients. ConclusionsRNS implantation resulted in a sustained reduction in seizure frequency with minimal side effects in a majority of patients. Taken together, our data suggest that RNS is an effective and safe treatment option for focal, multifocal, and potentially generalized DRE in the pediatric and young adult population.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.