Neurostimulation therapy for epilepsy.

Abstract

Neurostimulation therapy for epilepsy is growing in popularity. By appropriate targeting of applied electrical activation at selected nervous system sites, antiseizure effects may be achieved without the common sedative side effects of antiepileptic medications. Risks of neurostimulation therapy are those associated with the device implantation surgical procedures. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) reduces seizures by 45% and has been employed in over 13,000 patients worldwide. New reports suggest VNS is particularly beneficial for patients with Lennox-Gastuat syndome. VNS also reduces sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. New publications describing small, uncontrolled case series also suggest deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation may develop into effective antiepileptic therapies in the future.