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Davidson B, Bhattacharya A, Sarica C, Darmani G, Raies N, Chen R, Lozano AM. Neuromodulation techniques - From non-invasive brain stimulation to deep brain stimulation. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00330. [PMID: 38340524 PMCID: PMC11103220 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00330] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past 30 years, the field of neuromodulation has witnessed remarkable advancements. These developments encompass a spectrum of techniques, both non-invasive and invasive, that possess the ability to both probe and influence the central nervous system. In many cases neuromodulation therapies have been adopted into standard care treatments. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) are the most common non-invasive methods in use today. Deep brain stimulation (DBS), spinal cord stimulation (SCS), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), are leading surgical methods for neuromodulation. Ongoing active clinical trials using are uncovering novel applications and paradigms for these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Davidson
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Can Sarica
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ghazaleh Darmani
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nasem Raies
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Chen
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic, Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andres M Lozano
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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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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Jung B, Yang C, Lee SH. Vagus Nerves Stimulation: Clinical Implication and Practical Issue as a Neuropsychiatric Treatment. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 22:13-22. [PMID: 38247408 PMCID: PMC10811398 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.23.1101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been approved as an adjunctive treatment for epilepsy and depression. As the progress of VNS treatment for these neuropsychiatric disorders continues, its applications have expanded to a wide range of conditions, including inflammatory diseases to cognitive dysfunctions. The branches of the vagal nerves directly or indirectly innervate the anatomical structures implicated in these neuropsychiatric conditions, which has led to promising results regarding the effectiveness of VNS. Previous studies investigating the effectiveness of VNS have mostly utilized invasive forms of stimulation. However, current preclinical and clinical research indicates that non-invasive forms of VNS, such as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, hold the promise for treating various neuropsychiatric conditions. This review aims to delve into relevant clinical studies of VNS in various illness states, different methods of VNS, and the potential mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects in these neuropsychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bori Jung
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea
- Department of Psychology, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chaeyeon Yang
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea
| | - Seung-Hwan Lee
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Goyang, Korea
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Lähde N, Basnyat P, Raitanen J, Kämppi L, Lehtimäki K, Rosti-Otajärvi E, Peltola J. Complex executive functions assessed by the trail making test (TMT) part B improve more than those assessed by the TMT part A or digit span backward task during vagus nerve stimulation in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1349201. [PMID: 38419904 PMCID: PMC10899669 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1349201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a paucity of clinical studies examining the long-term effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on cognition, although a recent study of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) treated with VNS therapy demonstrated significant improvement in executive functions as measured by the EpiTrack composite score. The present study aimed to investigate performance variability in three cognitive tests assessing executive functions and working memory in a cohort of DRE patients receiving VNS therapy during a follow-up duration of up to 5 years. Methods The study included 46 DRE patients who were assessed with the Trail Making Test (TMT) (Parts A and B) and Digit Span Backward (DB) task prior to VNS implantation, 6 months and 12 months after implantation, and yearly thereafter as a part of the clinical VNS protocol. A linear mixed-effects (LME) model was used to analyze changes in test z scores over time, accounting for variations in follow-up duration when predicting changes over 5 years. Additionally, we conducted descriptive analyses to illustrate individual changes. Results On average, TMT-A z scores improved by 0.024 units (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.006 to 0.042, p = 0.009), TMT-B z scores by 0.034 units (95% CI: 0.012 to 0.057, p = 0.003), and DB z scores by 0.019 units per month (95% CI: 0.011 to 0.028, p < 0.001). Patients with psychiatric comorbidities achieved the greatest improvements in TMT-B and DB z scores among all groups (0.0058 units/month, p = 0.036 and 0.028 units/month, p = 0.003, respectively). TMT-A z scores improved the most in patients taking 1-2 ASMs as well as in patients with psychiatric comorbidities (0.042 units/month, p = 0.002 and p = 0.003, respectively). Conclusion Performance in all three tests improved at the group level during the follow-up period, with the most robust improvement observed in TMT-B, which requires inhibition control and set-switching in addition to the visuoperceptual processing speed that is crucial in TMT-A and working-memory performance that is essential in DB. Moreover, the improvement in TMT-B was further enhanced if the patient had psychiatric comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niina Lähde
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Pabitra Basnyat
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jani Raitanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- UKK Institute for Health Promotion Research, Tampere, Finland
| | - Leena Kämppi
- Epilepsia Helsinki, Member of EpiCARE ERN, Department of Neurology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kai Lehtimäki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Eija Rosti-Otajärvi
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Rehabilitation and Psychosocial Support, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jukka Peltola
- Department of Neurology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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Jelinek M, Lipkova J, Duris K. Vagus nerve stimulation as immunomodulatory therapy for stroke: A comprehensive review. Exp Neurol 2024; 372:114628. [PMID: 38042360 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114628] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is a devastating cerebrovascular pathology with high morbidity and mortality. Inflammation plays a central role in the pathophysiology of stroke. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a promising immunomodulatory method that has shown positive effects in stroke treatment, including neuroprotection, anti-apoptosis, anti-inflammation, antioxidation, reduced infarct volume, improved neurological scores, and promotion of M2 microglial polarization. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the vagus nerve's immunomodulatory effects through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) and provide a comprehensive assessment of the available experimental literature focusing on the use of VNS in stroke treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matyas Jelinek
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jolana Lipkova
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Duris
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Neurosurgery, The University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Winter F, Krueger MT, Delev D, Theys T, Van Roost DMP, Fountas K, Schijns OE, Roessler K. Current state of the art of traditional and minimal invasive epilepsy surgery approaches. BRAIN & SPINE 2024; 4:102755. [PMID: 38510599 PMCID: PMC10951767 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2024.102755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Open resective surgery remains the main treatment modality for refractory epilepsy, but is often considered a last resort option due to its invasiveness. Research question This manuscript aims to provide an overview on traditional as well as minimally invasive surgical approaches in modern state of the art epilepsy surgery. Materials and methods This narrative review addresses both historical and contemporary as well as minimal invasive surgical approaches in epilepsy surgery. Peer-reviewed published articles were retrieved from PubMed and Scopus. Only articles written in English were considered for this work. A range of traditional and minimally invasive surgical approaches in epilepsy surgery were examined, and their respective advantages and disadvantages have been summarized. Results The following approaches and techniques are discussed: minimally invasive diagnostics in epilepsy surgery, anterior temporal lobectomy, functional temporal lobectomy, selective amygdalohippocampectomy through a transsylvian, transcortical, or subtemporal approach, insulo-opercular corticectomies compared to laser interstitial thermal therapy, radiofrequency thermocoagulation, stereotactic radiosurgery, neuromodulation, high intensity focused ultrasound, and disconnection surgery including callosotomy, hemispherotomy, and subpial transections. Discussion and conclusion Understanding the benefits and disadvantages of different surgical approaches and strategies in traditional and minimal invasive epilepsy surgery might improve the surgical decision tree, as not all procedures are appropriate for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Winter
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Marie T. Krueger
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Medical Center of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Delev
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology, Universities Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf (CIO ABCD), Germany
| | - Tom Theys
- Department of Neurosurgery, Universitair Ziekenhuis Leuven, UZ Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Kostas Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Thessaly, Greece
| | - Olaf E.M.G. Schijns
- Department of Neurosurgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), University Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Academic Center for Epileptology, Maastricht University Medical Center & Kempenhaeghe, Maastricht, Heeze, the Netherlands
| | - Karl Roessler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
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Driskill CM, Childs JE, Phensy AJ, Rodriguez SR, O’Brien JT, Lindquist KL, Naderi A, Bordieanu B, McGinty JF, Kroener S. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) modulates synaptic plasticity in the rat infralimbic cortex via Trk-B receptor activation to reduce drug-seeking. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.25.577293. [PMID: 38328140 PMCID: PMC10849650 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.25.577293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Drugs of abuse cause changes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and associated regions that impair inhibitory control over drug-seeking. Breaking the contingencies between drug-associated cues and the delivery of the reward during extinction learning reduces relapse. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has previously been shown to enhance extinction learning and reduce drug-seeking. Here we determined the effects of VNS-mediated release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on extinction and cue-induced reinstatement in rats trained to self-administer cocaine. Pairing 10 days of extinction training with VNS facilitated extinction and reduced drug-seeking behavior during reinstatement. Rats that received a single extinction session with VNS showed elevated BDNF levels in the medial PFC as determined via an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Systemic blockade of Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) receptors during extinction, via the TrkB antagonist ANA-12, decreased the effects of VNS on extinction and reinstatement. Whole-cell recordings in brain slices showed that cocaine self-administration induced alterations in the ratio of AMPA and NMDA receptor-mediated currents in layer 5 pyramidal neurons of the infralimbic cortex (IL). Pairing extinction with VNS reversed cocaine-induced changes in glutamatergic transmission by enhancing AMPAR currents, and this effect was blocked by ANA-12. Our study suggests that VNS consolidates extinction of drug-seeking behavior by reversing drug-induced changes in synaptic AMPA receptors in the IL, and this effect is abolished by blocking TrkB receptors during extinction, highlighting a potential mechanism for the therapeutic effects of VNS in addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Driskill
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
| | - Jessica E. Childs
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
| | - Aarron J. Phensy
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
| | - Sierra R. Rodriguez
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
| | - John T. O’Brien
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
| | - Kathy L. Lindquist
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
| | - Aurian Naderi
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
| | - Bogdan Bordieanu
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425
| | - Jacqueline F. McGinty
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425
| | - Sven Kroener
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
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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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Chen H, Wang Y, Ji T, Jiang Y, Zhou X. Brain functional connectivity-based prediction of vagus nerve stimulation efficacy in pediatric pharmacoresistant epilepsy. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:3259-3268. [PMID: 37170486 PMCID: PMC10580342 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14257] [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: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a common and widely used therapy for pharmacoresistant epilepsy, the reported efficacy of VNS in pediatric patients varies, so it is unclear which children will respond to VNS therapy. This study aimed to identify functional brain network features associated with VNS action to distinguish VNS responders from nonresponders using scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) data. METHODS Twenty-three children were included in this study, 16 in the discovery cohort and 7 in the test cohort. Using partial correlation value as a measure of whole-brain functional connectivity, we identified the differential edges between responders and nonresponders. Results derived from this were used as input to generate a support vector machine-learning classifier to predict VNS outcomes. RESULTS The postcentral gyrus in the left and right parietal lobe regions was identified as the most significant differential brain region between VNS responders and nonresponders (p < 0.001). The resultant classifier demonstrated a mean AUC value of 0.88, a mean sensitivity rate of 91.4%, and a mean specificity rate of 84.3% on fivefold cross-validation in the discovery cohort. In the testing cohort, our study demonstrated an AUC value of 0.91, a sensitivity rate of 86.6%, and a specificity rate of 79.3%. Furthermore, for prediction accuracy, our model can achieve 81.4% accuracy at the epoch level and 100% accuracy at the patient level. SIGNIFICANCE This study provides the first treatment response prediction model for VNS using scalp EEG data with ictal recordings and offers new insights into its mechanism of action. Our results suggest that brain functional connectivity features can help predict therapeutic response to VNS therapy. With further validation, our model could facilitate the selection of targeted pediatric patients and help avoid risky and costly procedures for patients who are unlikely to benefit from VNS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Beijing International Center for Mathematical ResearchPeking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yi Wang
- Beijing International Center for Mathematical ResearchPeking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Taoyun Ji
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Epilepsy CenterPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Yuwu Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Epilepsy CenterPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Xiao‐Hua Zhou
- Beijing International Center for Mathematical ResearchPeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public HealthPeking UniversityBeijingChina
- Pazhou LabGuangzhouChina
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Subramaniam VR, Mu L, Kwon CS. Comparing vagus nerve stimulation and resective surgery outcomes in patients with co-occurring autism and epilepsy to patients with epilepsy alone: A population-based study. Autism Res 2023; 16:1924-1933. [PMID: 37646480 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3020] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism and epilepsy commonly co-occur. Understanding trends in healthcare utilization and in-hospital outcomes amongst patients with autism and epilepsy can help optimize care and reduce costs. We compared hospital outcomes amongst patients with autism and epilepsy to those with epilepsy alone undergoing vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and resective/disconnective surgery. Differences in discharge status, in-hospital mortality, mean length of stay (LOS), cost and surgical/medical complications were examined. Elective surgical admissions amongst patients with epilepsy alone and co-occurring autism and epilepsy were identified in the 2003-14 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) using previously validated ICD-9-CM case definitions. One patient with co-occurring epilepsy and autism was matched to three epilepsy patients for age, sex and (1) VNS and (2) resective/disconnective surgery. Multinomial logistic regressions were performed to examine the outcomes of interest. Data were collected on: (1) VNS-52 (mean age: 12.79 ± 1.03; 19.27% female) hospital admissions in persons with comorbid autism and epilepsy, 156 (mean age: 12.84 ± 0.71; 19.31% female) matched controls with epilepsy alone; (2) resective/disconnective surgery-113 (mean age: 12.99 ± 0.84; 24.55% female) with comorbid autism and epilepsy, 339 (mean age: 13.37 ± 0.68; 23.86% female) matched controls with epilepsy alone. Compared to patients with epilepsy alone, patients with autism and epilepsy who underwent either surgery showed no differences for in-hospital mortality, discharge status, mean LOS, hospitalization cost, and surgical/medical complications. Our study shows the feasibility and safety of epilepsy VNS and resective surgery in those with ASD do not differ with those with epilepsy alone, contrary to the prevalent safety concerns of epilepsy surgery in patients with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun R Subramaniam
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lan Mu
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Churl-Su Kwon
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Neurology, Epidemiology, The Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, New York, New York, USA
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Bagić AI, Verner R, Afra P, Benbadis S. ASCEND: A randomized controlled trial of titration strategies for vagus nerve stimulation in drug-resistant epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 145:109333. [PMID: 37429122 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109333] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy is widely understood to provide clinically meaningful improvements in seizure control to patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, and has been a staple in the clinical armamentaria available to epileptologists for over 25 years. Despite the long history of evidence-based reviews by neurology professional societies, there is still evidence of a practice gap in VNS titration and dosing that aims to maximize clinical benefit. Recent retrospective analyses have strongly argued for a more consistent application of a population-wide target dose of VNS, and further argued the importance of quickly achieving this target dose to hasten the onset of clinical benefits; however, these analyses failed to provide evidence for practical implementation. Herein, we describe a randomized controlled trial assessing the impact of titrating VNS according to three different protocols to achieve the target dose of 1.5 mA at 500µsec, for a 20-Hz signal frequency. The study was registered as NCT02385526 on March 11, 2015. Sixty-two patients were randomized into treatment groups that followed different titration protocols. One protocol (Group A) was designed to align with currently accepted professional guidance for VNS titration and the manufacturer's labeling for VNS in epilepsy (Heck et al., 2002), while the other two protocols were derived from VNS applications in other therapeutic areas. Group A participants were most likely to achieve the target dose parameters in 12 weeks or less (81.8%), with a median time-until-achievement of the target dose of 8.1 weeks, while less than 60% of patients in other groups were able to achieve the same endpoint. Participants in all groups experienced low levels of transient tolerability concerns and adverse events, suggesting titration to the target dose in 12 weeks or less following the Group A protocol is generally acceptable to most patients. These findings indicate that patients receiving VNS for epilepsy can achieve the manufacturer-recommended dose range in 12 weeks or less. A wider implementation of the approach will likely improve the clinical impact of VNS on seizure control and prevent undertreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anto I Bagić
- University of Pittsburgh Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (UPCEC), Department of Neurology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Ryan Verner
- LivaNova PLC (or a Subsidiary), Medical and Clinical Affairs, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Pegah Afra
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Department of Neurology, Boston, MA, USA; University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Selim Benbadis
- University of South Florida, Department of Neurology, Tampa, USA.
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Lim YG, Ker JRX, Tan YL, Chan DWS, Low DCY, Ng WH, Wan KR. Adverse Events and Complications Associated With Vagal Nerve Stimulation: An Analysis of the Manufacturer And User Facility Device Experience Database. Neuromodulation 2023:S1094-7159(23)00647-5. [PMID: 37341672 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2023.04.474] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) can have devastating consequences for patients and families. Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) is used as a surgical adjunct for treating DRE not amenable to surgical resection. Although VNS is generally safe, it has its inherent complications. With the increasing number of implantations, adequate patient education with discussion of possible complications forms a critical aspect of informed consent and patient counseling. There is a lack of large-scale reviews of device malfunction, patient complaints, and surgically related complications available to date. MATERIALS AND METHODS Complications associated with VNS implants performed between 2011 and 2021 were identified through a search of the United States Food and Drug Administration Manufacturer And User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) data base. We found three models on the data base, CYBERONICS, INC pulse gen Demipulse 103, AspireSR 106, and SenTiva 1000. The reports were classified into three main groups, "Device malfunction," "Patient complaints," and "Surgically managed complications." RESULTS A total of 5888 complications were reported over the ten-year period, of which 501 reports were inconclusive, 610 were unrelated, and 449 were deaths. In summary, there were 2272 reports for VNS 103, 1526 reports for VNS 106, and 530 reports for VNS 1000. Within VNS 103, 33% of reports were related to device malfunction, 33% to patient complaints, and 34% to surgically managed complications. For VNS 106, 35% were related to device malfunction, 24% to patient complaints, and 41% to surgically managed complications. Lastly, for VNS 1000, 8% were device malfunction, 45% patient complaints, and 47% surgically managed complications. CONCLUSION We present an analysis of the MAUDE data base for adverse events and complications related to VNS. It is hoped that this description of complications and literature review will help promote further improvement in its safety profile, patient education, and management of both patient and clinician expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Guang Lim
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore.
| | | | - Yee Leng Tan
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
| | - Derrick W S Chan
- Neurological Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Wai Hoe Ng
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
| | - Kai Rui Wan
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
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13
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Yang H, Shi W, Fan J, Wang X, Song Y, Lian Y, Shan W, Wang Q. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (ta-VNS) for Treatment of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:870-880. [PMID: 36995682 PMCID: PMC10275831 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-023-01353-9] [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] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This study explored the efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (ta-VNS) in patients with epilepsy. A total of 150 patients were randomly divided into active stimulation group and control group. At baseline and 4, 12, and 20 weeks of stimulation, demographic information, seizure frequency, and adverse events were recorded; at 20 weeks, the patients underwent assessment of quality of life, Hamilton Anxiety and Depression scale, MINI suicide scale, and MoCA scale. Seizure frequency was determined according to the patient's seizure diary. Seizure frequency reduction > 50% was considered effective. During our study, the antiepileptic drugs were maintained at a constant level in all subjects. At 20 weeks, the responder rate was significantly higher in active group than in control group. The relative reduction of seizure frequency in the active group was significantly higher than that in the control group at 20 weeks. Additionally, no significant differences were shown in QOL, HAMA, HAMD, MINI, and MoCA score at 20 weeks. The main adverse events were pain, sleep disturbance, flu-like symptoms, and local skin discomfort. No severe adverse events were reported in active and control group. There were no significant differences in adverse events and severe adverse events between the two groups. The present study showed that ta-VNS is an effective and safe therapy for epilepsy. Furthermore, the benefit in QOL, mood, and cognitive state of ta-VNS needs further validation in the future study although no significant improvement was shown in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huajun Yang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100000, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Weixiong Shi
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100000, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Jingjing Fan
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100000, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Xiaoshan Wang
- Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Brain Hospital, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Yijun Song
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, China
| | - Yajun Lian
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Wei Shan
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100000, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100000, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100000, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing, 100000, China.
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14
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Fisher RS. Deep brain stimulation of thalamus for epilepsy. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 179:106045. [PMID: 36809846 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromodulation (neurostimulation) is a relatively new and rapidly growing treatment for refractory epilepsy. Three varieties are approved in the US: vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS). This article reviews thalamic DBS for epilepsy. Among many thalamic sub-nuclei, DBS for epilepsy has been targeted to the anterior nucleus (ANT), centromedian nucleus (CM), dorsomedial nucleus (DM) and pulvinar (PULV). Only ANT is FDA-approved, based upon a controlled clinical trial. Bilateral stimulation of ANT reduced seizures by 40.5% at three months in the controlled phase (p = .038) and 75% by 5 years in the uncontrolled phase. Side effects related to paresthesias, acute hemorrhage, infection, occasional increased seizures, and usually transient effects on mood and memory. Efficacy was best documented for focal onset seizures in temporal or frontal lobe. CM stimulation may be useful for generalized or multifocal seizures and PULV for posterior limbic seizures. Mechanisms of DBS for epilepsy are largely unknown, but animal work points to changes in receptors, channels, neurotransmitters, synapses, network connectivity and neurogenesis. Personalization of therapies, in terms of connectivity of the seizure onset zone to the thalamic sub- nucleus and individual characteristics of the seizures, might lead to improved efficacy. Many questions remain about DBS, including the best candidates for different types of neuromodulation, the best targets, the best stimulation parameters, how to minimize side effects and how to deliver current noninvasively. Despite the questions, neuromodulation provides useful new opportunities to treat people with refractory seizures not responding to medicines and not amenable to resective surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Fisher
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Neurosurgery by Courtesy, Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, 213 Quarry Road, Room 4865, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
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15
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Bocian R, Broncel A, Konopacki J. Noradrenergic α1, α2, and β1receptors mediate VNS-induced theta oscillations. Brain Res 2023; 1804:148266. [PMID: 36717012 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148266] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Although vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) has been employed with success for almost four decades in many central nervous system disturbances, the physiological and pharmacological processes underlying this therapy are still unclear. Searching for central mechanisms of VNS is clinically limited. Hence, in many experiments, VNS technique is tested on the model of laboratory animals. In the present study we proceed with the experiments to verify some central effects of VNS. Specifically, we focussed on the hippocampal formation (HPC) noradrenergic profile which underlines the VNS-induced theta oscillations in anesthetized rats (Broncel et al., 2017; 2021). The effects of noradrenaline (NE) and selective noradrenergic α and β agonists and antagonists were tested in experiments organized in three stages. Initially, a nonspecific noradrenergic agonist, noradrenaline, was administrated. In the second stage, noradrenergic α and β agonists were applied. In the last stage, the administration of selected agonists was pretreated by specific antagonists. The results of the present study provide evidence that the selective activation of HPC α1, α2, and β1 noradrenergic receptors produce the inhibition of VNS-induced theta oscillations. Hippocampal β2 and β3 receptors were found not to be involved in the modulation of oscillations produced by the vagal nerve stimulation. The obtained outcomes are discussed in light of the effects of increased exogenous NE and induced release of endogenous NE.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Bocian
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, The University of Lodz, Pomorska St. No 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland.
| | - A Broncel
- Neuromedical Ltd., Research Department, Natolin 15, 92-701 Lodz, Poland.
| | - J Konopacki
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, The University of Lodz, Pomorska St. No 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland.
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16
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Jung B, Yang C, Lee SH. Electroceutical and Bioelectric Therapy: Its Advantages and Limitations. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 21:19-31. [PMID: 36700309 PMCID: PMC9889897 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2023.21.1.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Given the long history, the field of electroceutical and bioelectric therapy has grown impressively, recognized as the main modality of mental health treatments along with psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Electroceutical and bioelectric therapy comprises electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), and other brain stimulation techniques. Much empirical research has been published regarding the application guidelines, mechanism of action, and efficacy of respective brain stimulation techniques, but no comparative study that delineates the advantages and limitations of each therapy exists for a comprehensive understanding of each technique. This review provides a comparison of existing electroceutical and bioelectric techniques, primarily focusing on the therapeutic advantages and limitations of each therapy in the current electroceutical and bioelectric field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bori Jung
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea,Department of Psychology, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chaeyeon Yang
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea
| | - Seung-Hwan Lee
- Clinical Emotion and Cognition Research Laboratory, Inje University, Goyang, Korea,Department of Psychiatry, Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital, Goyang, Korea,Address for correspondence: Seung-Hwan Lee Department of Psychiatry, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Juhwa-ro 170, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang 10380, Korea, E-mail: , ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0305-3709
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17
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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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18
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Kaye HL, San-Juan D, Salvador R, Biagi MC, Dubreuil-Vall L, Damar U, Pascual-Leone A, Ruffini G, Shafi MM, Rotenberg A. Personalized, Multisession, Multichannel Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Medication-Refractory Focal Epilepsy: An Open-Label Study. J Clin Neurophysiol 2023; 40:53-62. [PMID: 34010226 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000000838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Animal and proof-of-principle human studies suggest that cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation may suppress seizures in drug-resistant focal epilepsy. The present study tests the safety, tolerability, and effect size of repeated daily cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation in epilepsy have not been established, limiting development of clinically meaningful interventions. METHODS We conducted a 2-center, open-label study on 20 participants with medically refractory, focal epilepsy, aged 9 to 56 years (11 women and 9 children younger than18 years). Each participant underwent 10 sessions of 20 minutes of cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation over 2 weeks. Multielectrode montages were designed using a realistic head model-driven approach to conduct an inhibitory electric field to the target cortical seizure foci and surrounding cortex to suppress excitability and reduce seizure rates. Patients recorded daily seizures using a seizure diary 8 weeks prior, 2 weeks during, and 8 to 12 weeks after the stimulation period. RESULTS The median seizure reduction was 44% relative to baseline and did not differ between adult and pediatric patients. Three patients experienced an increase in seizure frequency of >50% during the stimulation period; in one, a 36% increase in seizure frequency persisted through 12 weeks of follow-up. Otherwise, participants experienced only minor adverse events-the most common being scalp discomfort during transcranial direct current stimulation. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study supports the safety and efficacy of multifocal, personalized, multichannel, cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation for adult and pediatric patients with medication-refractory focal epilepsy, although identifies a possibility of seizure exacerbation in some. The data also provide insight into the effect size to inform the design of a randomized, sham-stimulation controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harper Lee Kaye
- Neuromodulation Program and Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center; Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Division of Medical Sciences, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
| | - Daniel San-Juan
- Clinical Neurophysiology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Ugur Damar
- Neuromodulation Program and Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center; Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
| | - Alvaro Pascual-Leone
- Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research and Center for Memory Health, Hebrew Senior Life, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- Guttmann Brain Health Institute, Institut Gutmann, Universitat Autonoma, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giulio Ruffini
- Neuroelectrics Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuroelectrics Corporation, Cambridge, U.S.A.; and
| | - Mouhsin M Shafi
- Berenson-Allen Center for Noninvasive Brain Stimulation, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
| | - Alexander Rotenberg
- Neuromodulation Program and Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center; Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- Berenson-Allen Center for Noninvasive Brain Stimulation, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
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19
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Belkacem AN, Jamil N, Khalid S, Alnajjar F. On closed-loop brain stimulation systems for improving the quality of life of patients with neurological disorders. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1085173. [PMID: 37033911 PMCID: PMC10076878 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1085173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging brain technologies have significantly transformed human life in recent decades. For instance, the closed-loop brain-computer interface (BCI) is an advanced software-hardware system that interprets electrical signals from neurons, allowing communication with and control of the environment. The system then transmits these signals as controlled commands and provides feedback to the brain to execute specific tasks. This paper analyzes and presents the latest research on closed-loop BCI that utilizes electric/magnetic stimulation, optogenetic, and sonogenetic techniques. These techniques have demonstrated great potential in improving the quality of life for patients suffering from neurodegenerative or psychiatric diseases. We provide a comprehensive and systematic review of research on the modalities of closed-loop BCI in recent decades. To achieve this, the authors used a set of defined criteria to shortlist studies from well-known research databases into categories of brain stimulation techniques. These categories include deep brain stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial direct-current stimulation, transcranial alternating-current stimulation, and optogenetics. These techniques have been useful in treating a wide range of disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, dementia, and depression. In total, 76 studies were shortlisted and analyzed to illustrate how closed-loop BCI can considerably improve, enhance, and restore specific brain functions. The analysis revealed that literature in the area has not adequately covered closed-loop BCI in the context of cognitive neural prosthetics and implanted neural devices. However, the authors demonstrate that the applications of closed-loop BCI are highly beneficial, and the technology is continually evolving to improve the lives of individuals with various ailments, including those with sensory-motor issues or cognitive deficiencies. By utilizing emerging techniques of stimulation, closed-loop BCI can safely improve patients' cognitive and affective skills, resulting in better healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelkader Nasreddine Belkacem
- Department of Computer and Network Engineering, College of Information Technology, UAE University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Abdelkader Nasreddine Belkacem
| | - Nuraini Jamil
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, College of Information Technology, UAE University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sumayya Khalid
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, College of Information Technology, UAE University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fady Alnajjar
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, College of Information Technology, UAE University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Brain Science, RIKEN, Saitama, Japan
- Fady Alnajjar
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20
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Vespa S, Stumpp L, Liberati G, Delbeke J, Nonclercq A, Mouraux A, El Tahry R. Characterization of vagus nerve stimulation-induced pupillary responses in epileptic patients. Brain Stimul 2022; 15:1498-1507. [PMID: 36402376 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modulation of the locus coeruleus (LC)-noradrenergic system is a key mechanism of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). Activation of the LC produces pupil dilation, and the VNS-induced change in pupil diameter was demonstrated in animals as a possible dose-dependent biomarker for treatment titration. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to characterize VNS-induced pupillary responses in epileptic patients. METHODS Pupil diameter was recorded in ten epileptic patients upon four stimulation conditions: three graded levels of VNS intensity and a somatosensory control stimulation (cutaneous electrical stimulation over the left clavicle). For each block, the patients rated the intensity of stimulation on a numerical scale. We extracted the latency of the peak pupil dilation and the magnitude of the early (0-2.5 s) and late components (2.5-5 s) of the pupil dilation response (PDR). RESULTS VNS elicited a peak dilation with longer latency compared to the control condition (p = 0.043). The magnitude of the early PDR was significantly correlated with the intensity of perception (p = 0.046), whereas the late PDR was not (p = 0.19). There was a significant main effect of the VNS level of intensity on the magnitude of the late PDR (p = 0.01) but not on the early PDR (p = 0.2). The relationship between late PDR magnitude and VNS intensity was best fit by a Gaussian model (inverted-U). CONCLUSIONS The late component of the PDR might reflect specific dose-dependent effects of VNS, as compared to control somatosensory stimulation. The inverted-U relationship of late PDR with VNS intensity might indicate the engagement of antagonist central mechanisms at high stimulation intensities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Vespa
- Institute of NeuroScience, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Lars Stumpp
- Institute of NeuroScience, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Giulia Liberati
- Institute of NeuroScience, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean Delbeke
- Institute of NeuroScience, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - André Mouraux
- Institute of NeuroScience, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Riëm El Tahry
- Institute of NeuroScience, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Department of Neurology, Saint Luc University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Simpson HD, Schulze-Bonhage A, Cascino GD, Fisher RS, Jobst BC, Sperling MR, Lundstrom BN. Practical considerations in epilepsy neurostimulation. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2445-2460. [PMID: 35700144 PMCID: PMC9888395 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Neuromodulation is a key therapeutic tool for clinicians managing patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Multiple devices are available with long-term follow-up and real-world experience. The aim of this review is to give a practical summary of available neuromodulation techniques to guide the selection of modalities, focusing on patient selection for devices, common approaches and techniques for initiation of programming, and outpatient management issues. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (DBS-ANT), and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) are all supported by randomized controlled trials that show safety and a significant impact on seizure reduction, as well as a suggestion of reduction in the risk of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Significant seizure reductions are observed after 3 months for DBS, RNS, and VNS in randomized controlled trials, and efficacy appears to improve with time out to 7 to 10 years of follow-up for all modalities, albeit in uncontrolled follow-up or retrospective studies. A significant number of patients experience seizure-free intervals of 6 months or more with all three modalities. Number and location of epileptogenic foci are important factors affecting efficacy, and together with comorbidities such as severe mood or sleep disorders, may influence the choice of modality. Programming has evolved-DBS is typically initiated at lower current/voltage than used in the pivotal trial, whereas target charge density is lower with RNS, however generalizable optimal parameters are yet to be defined. Noninvasive brain stimulation is an emerging stimulation modality, although it is currently not used widely. In summary, clinical practice has evolved from those established in pivotal trials. Guidance is now available for clinicians who wish to expand their approach, and choice of neuromodulation technique may be tailored to individual patients based on their epilepsy characteristics, risk tolerance, and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh D. Simpson
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Gregory D. Cascino
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Robert S. Fisher
- Department of Neurology, Stanford Neuroscience Health Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Barbara C. Jobst
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, NH, USA
| | - Michael R. Sperling
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brian N. Lundstrom
- Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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22
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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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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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Blond BN, Hirsch LJ. Updated review of rescue treatments for seizure clusters and prolonged seizures. Expert Rev Neurother 2022; 22:567-577. [PMID: 35862983 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2022.2105207] [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
INTRODUCTION Although the treatment of epilepsy primarily focuses on prevention, recurrent seizures are unfortunately an ongoing reality, particularly in people with epilepsy who live with chronic refractory seizures. Rescue medications are agents which can be administered in urgent/emergent seizure episodes such as seizure clusters or prolonged seizures with the goal of terminating seizure activity, preventing morbidity, and decreasing the risk of further seizures. AREAS COVERED This review first discusses clinical opportunities for rescue medications, with particular attention focused on seizure clusters and prolonged seizures, including their epidemiology, risk factors, and associated morbidity. Current rescue medications, their indications, efficacy, and adverse effects are discussed. We then discuss rescue medications and formulations which are currently under development, concentrating on practical aspects relevant for clinical care. EXPERT OPINION Rescue medications should be considered for all people with epilepsy with ongoing seizures. Recent rescue medications including intranasal formulations provide considerable advantages. New rescue medications are being developed which may expand opportunities for effective treatment. In the future, combining rescue medications with seizure detection and seizure prediction technologies should further expand opportunities for use and should reduce the morbidity of seizures and provide increased comfort, control, and quality of life for people living with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin N Blond
- Department of Neurology, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
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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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Bowles S, Hickman J, Peng X, Williamson WR, Huang R, Washington K, Donegan D, Welle CG. Vagus nerve stimulation drives selective circuit modulation through cholinergic reinforcement. Neuron 2022; 110:2867-2885.e7. [PMID: 35858623 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulation therapy for a broad and expanding set of neurologic conditions. However, the mechanism through which VNS influences central nervous system circuitry is not well described, limiting therapeutic optimization. VNS leads to widespread brain activation, but the effects on behavior are remarkably specific, indicating plasticity unique to behaviorally engaged neural circuits. To understand how VNS can lead to specific circuit modulation, we leveraged genetic tools including optogenetics and in vivo calcium imaging in mice learning a skilled reach task. We find that VNS enhances skilled motor learning in healthy animals via a cholinergic reinforcement mechanism, producing a rapid consolidation of an expert reach trajectory. In primary motor cortex (M1), VNS drives precise temporal modulation of neurons that respond to behavioral outcome. This suggests that VNS may accelerate motor refinement in M1 via cholinergic signaling, opening new avenues for optimizing VNS to target specific disease-relevant circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer Bowles
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jordan Hickman
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Peng
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - W Ryan Williamson
- IDEA Core, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Rongchen Huang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kayden Washington
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Dane Donegan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Cristin G Welle
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Ilyas A, Tandon N, Lhatoo SD. Thalamic neuromodulation for epilepsy: A clinical perspective. Epilepsy Res 2022; 183:106942. [PMID: 35580382 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106942] [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: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Thalamic neuromodulation can be an effective therapeutic option for select patients with medically refractory epilepsy. However, successful outcome depends on several factors, beginning with appropriate patient and thalamic target selection. Among thalamic targets, the anterior (ANT) and centromedian (CeM) nuclei have the greatest clinical evidence for efficacy. However, the place of thalamic neuromodulation in the treatment armamentarium for intractable seizures is at the tail end of a long list of options. It's relative efficacy, if any, in relation to other treatment modalities however, can be inferred. As we will discuss, considerable work remains to be done in optimal targeting of thalamic nuclei, appropriate to the epilepsy syndrome and seizure type of the individual patient, which may change our current understanding of the place of thalamic neuromodulation on a range of treatment modality efficacies. Currently, it appears that ANT DBS is most efficacious for limbic epilepsies whereas CM, for generalized, multifocal (especially frontotemporal) epilepsies. Based on controlled studies, the efficacy of ANT and CeM DBS is roughly in line with other neuromodulatory therapies (i.e. RNS, VNS) when assessed within the cohort of patients for which the therapy is indicated. Much improvement is needed to render thalamic DBS more efficacious, and use of optimal targeting strategies, especially direct targeting, can positively affect outcomes. Thalamic neuromodulation is still in its infancy; however, clinical advances in this therapy are being realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeel Ilyas
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Texas Institute for Restorative Neurotechnologies, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Nitin Tandon
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Texas Institute for Restorative Neurotechnologies, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Samden D Lhatoo
- Texas Institute for Restorative Neurotechnologies, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Kim D, Kim T, Hwang Y, Lee CY, Joo EY, Seo DW, Hong SB, Shon YM. Prediction of the Responsiveness to Vagus-Nerve Stimulation in Patients with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy via Directed-Transfer-Function Analysis of Their Perioperative Scalp EEGs. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11133695. [PMID: 35806980 PMCID: PMC9267399 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11133695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to compare directed transfer function (DTF), which is an effective connectivity analysis, derived from scalp EEGs between responder and nonresponder groups implanted with vagus-nerve stimulation (VNS). Twelve patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (six responders and six nonresponders) and ten controls were recruited. A good response to VNS was defined as a reduction of ≥50% in seizure frequency compared with the presurgical baseline. DTF was calculated in five frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, beta, and broadband) and seven grouped electrode regions (left and right frontal, temporal, parieto-occipital, and midline) in three different states (presurgical, stimulation-on, and stimulation-off states). Responders showed presurgical nodal strength close to the control group in both inflow and outflow, whereas nonresponders exhibited increased inward and outward connectivity measures. Nonresponders also had increased inward and outward connectivity measures in the various brain regions and various frequency bands assessed compared with the control group when the stimulation was on or off. Our study demonstrated that the presurgical DTF profiles of responders were different from those of nonresponders. Moreover, a presurgical normal DTF profile may predict good responsiveness to VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyeop Kim
- Department of Neurology, Seoul Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul 07804, Korea;
| | - Taekyung Kim
- Department of Medical Device Management and Research, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology (SAHIST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06355, Korea;
- Biomedical Engineering Research Center, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 06351, Korea
| | - Yoonha Hwang
- Department of Neurology, The Catholic University of Korea Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul 03312, Korea;
| | - Chae Young Lee
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.Y.L.); (E.Y.J.); (D.-W.S.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Eun Yeon Joo
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.Y.L.); (E.Y.J.); (D.-W.S.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Dae-Won Seo
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.Y.L.); (E.Y.J.); (D.-W.S.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Seung Bong Hong
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.Y.L.); (E.Y.J.); (D.-W.S.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Young-Min Shon
- Department of Medical Device Management and Research, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology (SAHIST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06355, Korea;
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.Y.L.); (E.Y.J.); (D.-W.S.); (S.B.H.)
- Correspondence:
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Ahmed U, Chang YC, Zafeiropoulos S, Nassrallah Z, Miller L, Zanos S. Strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation. Bioelectron Med 2022; 8:9. [PMID: 35637543 PMCID: PMC9150383 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-022-00091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The vagus nerve is involved in the autonomic regulation of physiological homeostasis, through vast innervation of cervical, thoracic and abdominal visceral organs. Stimulation of the vagus with bioelectronic devices represents a therapeutic opportunity for several disorders implicating the autonomic nervous system and affecting different organs. During clinical translation, vagus stimulation therapies may benefit from a precision medicine approach, in which stimulation accommodates individual variability due to nerve anatomy, nerve-electrode interface or disease state and aims at eliciting therapeutic effects in targeted organs, while minimally affecting non-targeted organs. In this review, we discuss the anatomical and physiological basis for precision neuromodulation of the vagus at the level of nerve fibers, fascicles, branches and innervated organs. We then discuss different strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation, including fascicle- or fiber-selective cervical vagus nerve stimulation, stimulation of vagal branches near the end-organs, and ultrasound stimulation of vagus terminals at the end-organs themselves. Finally, we summarize targets for vagus neuromodulation in neurological, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders and suggest potential precision neuromodulation strategies that could form the basis for effective and safe therapies.
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Clinical perspectives on vagus nerve stimulation: present and future. Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:695-709. [PMID: 35536161 PMCID: PMC9093220 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The vagus nerve, the great wanderer, is involved in numerous processes throughout the body and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has the potential to modulate many of these functions. This wide-reaching capability has generated much interest across a range of disciplines resulting in several clinical trials and studies into the mechanistic basis of VNS. This review discusses current preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of VNS in different diseases and highlights recent advancements. Studies that provide insights into the mechanism of VNS are considered.
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Xu Y, Wang H, Zhao Y, Feng X, Wu L, Lou L. Stereoelectroencephalography-Guided Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation of Epileptic Foci in the Eloquent Motor Cortex: Feasibility, Safety, and Efficacy. World Neurosurg 2022; 164:e492-e500. [PMID: 35537694 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.04.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess safety and long-term outcome of stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG)-guided radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) of epileptic foci in eloquent motor areas. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed medical charts and surgical features of 15 patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy in eloquent motor areas treated between 2017 and 2021. All patients underwent SEEG-guided RFTC as the first option. General characteristics, SEEG findings, morbidity, and seizure outcome after RFTC were analyzed to extract the potential value of SEEG-guided RFTC for epileptic foci in eloquent motor areas. RESULTS There were 12 male and 3 female patients. Mean age at RFTC was 25 ± 8.5 years (range, 14-48 years), and mean duration of epilepsy before SEEG was 9.5 ± 7.0 years (range, 2-26 years). Mean follow-up period was 22.1 months (range, 8-41 months). Magnetic resonance imaging findings were negative in 2 cases, suspected focal cortical dysplasia in 10 cases, central region band heterotopias in 2 cases, and malformations of cortical development in 1 case. RFTC sites included primary precentral area (M1) (7, 46.7%), paracentral lobule (4, 26.7%), supplemental motor area (2, 13.3%), and premotor area (2, 13.3%). Of 15 patients, 12 (80%) experienced a ≥75% decrease in seizure frequency, of whom 9 (60%) experienced a long-term seizure-free period (10-29 months, mean 21.3 months). Three (20%) patients did not benefit from RFTC. Nine patients had neurological deficits immediately after RFTC (transient in 8 patients [3 days to 3 weeks] and prolonged in 1 patient). CONCLUSIONS SEEG-guided RFTC for epileptic foci in eloquent motor areas seems to be a safe and effective procedure. It could be the first option for drug-resistant epilepsy that is not amenable to surgical resection, especially for extremally focused epileptic foci in the cortex close to or inside the central region. Larger series and prospective studies are necessary to validate our conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Center, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Haibo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Center, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Center, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Center, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Center, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Lou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Center, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
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Koubeissi MZ, Joshi S, Eid A, Emami M, Jaafar N, Syed T, Foreman PJ, Sheth A, Amdur R, Bou Nasif M, Puente AN, Aly R, Chen H, Becker A, Gholipour T, Makke Y, Elmashad A, Gagnon L, Durand DM, Gaillard WD, Shields DC. Low-frequency stimulation of a fiber tract in bilateral temporal lobe epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 130:108667. [PMID: 35344808 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pharmacoresistant bilateral mesial temporal lobe epilepsy often implies poor resective surgical candidacy. Low-frequency stimulation of a fiber tract connected to bilateral hippocampi, the fornicodorsocommissural tract, has been shown to be safe and efficacious in reducing seizures in a previous short-term study. Here, we report a single-blinded, within-subject control, long-term deep-brain stimulation trial of low-frequency stimulation of the fornicodorsocommissural tract in bilateral mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. Outcomes of interest included safety with respect to verbal memory scores and reduction of seizure frequency. METHODS Our enrollment goal was 16 adult subjects to be randomized to 2-Hz or 5-Hz low-frequency stimulation of the fornicodorsocommissural tract starting at 2 mA. The study design consisted of four two-month blocks of stimulation with a 50%-duty cycle, alternating with two-month blocks of no stimulation. RESULTS We terminated the study after enrollment of five subjects due to slow accrual. Fornicodorsocommissural tract stimulation elicited bilateral hippocampal evoked responses in all subjects. Three subjects underwent implantation of pulse generators and long-term low-frequency stimulation with mean monthly seizures of 3.14 ± 2.67 (median 3.0 [IQR 1-4.0]) during stimulation-off blocks, compared with 0.96 ± 1.23 (median 1.0 [IQR 0-1.0]) during stimulation-on blocks (p = 0.0005) during the blinded phase. Generalized Estimating Equations showed that low-frequency stimulation reduced monthly seizure-frequency by 0.71 per mA (p < 0.001). Verbal memory scores were stable with no psychiatric complications or other adverse events. SIGNIFICANCE The results demonstrate feasibility of stimulating both hippocampi using a single deep-brain stimulation electrode in the fornicodorsocommissural tract, efficacy of low-frequency stimulation in reducing seizures, and safety as regards verbal memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Z Koubeissi
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Sweta Joshi
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Alexandra Eid
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Mehrdad Emami
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Nadim Jaafar
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | | | - Perry J Foreman
- Department of Neurology, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD 21215, USA
| | - Anumeha Sheth
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Richard Amdur
- Department of Surgery, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Mei Bou Nasif
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Antonio N Puente
- Department of Psychiatry, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Radwa Aly
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Hai Chen
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Andrew Becker
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Taha Gholipour
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Yamane Makke
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Ahmed Elmashad
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Linda Gagnon
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Dominique M Durand
- Neural Engineering Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - William D Gaillard
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Health, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Donald C Shields
- Department of Neurosurgery, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
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VNS parameters for clinical response in Epilepsy. Brain Stimul 2022; 15:814-821. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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Steinke KV, Möbius H, Christen HJ, Welkoborsky HJ. [Results of vagus nerve stimulator implantation in children and adolescents with treatment-refractory epilepsy]. HNO 2022; 70:389-395. [PMID: 35412064 DOI: 10.1007/s00106-022-01164-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a therapeutic procedure that can be applied in a palliative setting in patients with treatment-refractory epilepsy who are not suitable for epilepsy surgery. The mechanism of action of VNS is currently not completely understood but appears to depend on a modification of neurotransmitter metabolism. Data of 25 patients with treatment-refractory epilepsy who underwent implantation of a vagus nerve stimulator were retrospectively analyzed in a monocentric study. A reduction in epileptic seizure rate of 28% was observed 3 months after initial activation and of 32.9% after 6-12 months. The responder rate (reduction in seizure rate of more than 50% compared to before implantation) was 40% 6-12 months after initial activation. In one third of patients, a reduction in epileptic seizure rate of at least 75% occurred. Adverse effects of surgery or the stimulation were rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Vanessa Steinke
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohrenheilkunde, Kopf-Hals-Tumorzentrum, Klinikum Region Hannover GmbH, KRH Klinikum Nordstadt, Haltenhoffstraße 41, 30167, Hannover, Deutschland. .,Abteilung für HNO-Heilkunde, Kinder- und Jugendkrankenhaus Auf der Bult, Hannover, Deutschland.
| | - Hartmut Möbius
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohrenheilkunde, Kopf-Hals-Tumorzentrum, Klinikum Region Hannover GmbH, KRH Klinikum Nordstadt, Haltenhoffstraße 41, 30167, Hannover, Deutschland.,Abteilung für HNO-Heilkunde, Kinder- und Jugendkrankenhaus Auf der Bult, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - Hans-Jürgen Christen
- Abteilung für Neuropädiatrie, Kinder- und Jugendkrankenhaus Auf der Bult, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - Hans-Jürgen Welkoborsky
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohrenheilkunde, Kopf-Hals-Tumorzentrum, Klinikum Region Hannover GmbH, KRH Klinikum Nordstadt, Haltenhoffstraße 41, 30167, Hannover, Deutschland.,Abteilung für HNO-Heilkunde, Kinder- und Jugendkrankenhaus Auf der Bult, Hannover, Deutschland
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW More than 20 new antiseizure medications have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the past 3 decades; however, outcomes in newly diagnosed epilepsy have not improved, and epilepsy remains drug resistant in up to 40% of patients. Evidence supports improved seizure outcomes and quality of life in those who have undergone epilepsy surgery, but epilepsy surgery remains underutilized. This article outlines indications for epilepsy surgery, describes the presurgical workup, and summarizes current available surgical approaches. RECENT FINDINGS Class I evidence has demonstrated the superiority of resective surgery compared to medical therapy for seizure control and quality of life in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. The use of minimally invasive options, such as laser interstitial thermal therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery, are alternatives to resective surgery in well-selected patients. Neuromodulation techniques, such as responsive neurostimulation, deep brain stimulation, and vagus nerve stimulation, offer a suitable alternative, especially in those where resective surgery is contraindicated or where patients prefer nonresective surgery. Although neuromodulation approaches reduce seizure frequency, they are less likely to be associated with seizure freedom than resective surgery. SUMMARY Appropriate patients with drug-resistant epilepsy benefit from epilepsy surgery. If two well-chosen and tolerated medication trials do not achieve seizure control, referral to a comprehensive epilepsy center for a thorough presurgical workup and discussion of surgical options is appropriate. Mounting Class I evidence supports a significantly higher chance of stopping disabling seizures with surgery than with further medication trials.
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Bayasgalan B, Matsuhashi M, Fumuro T, Nakano N, Katagiri M, Shimotake A, Kikuchi T, Iida K, Kunieda T, Kato A, Takahashi R, Ikeda A, Inui K. Neural Sources of Vagus Nerve Stimulation–Induced Slow Cortical Potentials. Neuromodulation 2022; 25:407-413. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Santhumayor B, Karkare S, Kothare S, Rodgers S. Evaluating vagus nerve stimulation treatment with heart rate monitoring in pediatric patients with intractable epilepsy. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:547-556. [PMID: 34837500 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05416-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vagus nerve stimulators (VNS) have emerged as an effective treatment modality for pediatric patients suffering from intractable, drug-resistant epilepsy. Newer devices, AspireSR™ Model 106 and the SenTiva™ Model 1000 (VNS TherapyⓇ, LivaNova™), contain an "auto-stimulation" feature that detects ictal tachycardia and transmits pulsations to attenuate seizures. However, the exact benefits of auto-stimulation compared to its risks still merit further exploration. This study evaluates the utility of these specific devices in a heterogeneous population of pediatric and young adult patients with intractable epilepsy. METHODS This is a retrospective chart review of 55 patients who underwent either VNS insertion with or without an auto-stimulation-enabled VNS device at a single level four epilepsy center. Seizure frequency, seizure subtype, side effects, and change in anti-seizure medication load both before and after VNS implantations were collected from patient self-reporting at the time of VNS insertion and 12 months following implantation. Information regarding output current, auto-stimulation current, duty cycling, and auto-stimulation threshold of the device was obtained from documented VNS interrogation for patients with auto-stimulation-enabled VNS devices. RESULTS Patients with auto-stimulation-enabled VNS devices had a mean 56.0% (SD = 0.414) seizure frequency reduction 12 months post-VNS insertion, while patients without auto-stimulation-enabled VNS devices had a mean 41.6% (SD = 0.456) seizure frequency reduction during the same interval. The mean seizure frequency reduction 12 months post-VNS insertion for patients with a SenTiva™ 1000 model was 66.0% (SD = 0.426). For patients with auto-stimulation-enabled VNS devices, post-treatment seizure reduction was significantly correlated with daily auto-stimulation activation (R = 0.432, p = 0.025). CONCLUSION This study supports the clinical safety and utility of auto-stimulation-enabled VNS models, specifically the SenTiva™ 1000, in treating pediatric patients with intractable epilepsy of various subtypes and etiologies. Further research is needed to evaluate the sustained impact of auto-stimulation on long-term outcomes (≥ 2 years follow-up post-VNS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Santhumayor
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, USA.
| | - Shefali Karkare
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
| | - Sanjeev Kothare
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
| | - Shaun Rodgers
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
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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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Mertens A, Gadeyne S, Lescrauwaet E, Carrette E, Meurs A, De Herdt V, Dewaele F, Raedt R, Miatton M, Boon P, Vonck K. The potential of invasive and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation to improve verbal memory performance in epilepsy patients. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1984. [PMID: 35132096 PMCID: PMC8821667 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05842-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that acute vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) improves word recognition memory in epilepsy patients. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has gained interest as a non-invasive alternative to improve cognition. In this prospective randomized cross-over study, we investigated the effect of both invasive VNS and taVNS on verbal memory performance in 15 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. All patients conducted a word recognition memory paradigm in 3 conditions: VNS ON, VNS OFF and taVNS (3-period 3-treatment cross-over study design). For each condition, patients memorized 21 highlighted words from text paragraphs. Afterwards, the intervention was delivered for 30 s. Immediate recall and delayed recognition scores were obtained for each condition. This memory paradigm was repeated after 6 weeks of VNS therapy in 2 conditions: VNS ON and VNS OFF (2-period 2-treatment cross-over study design). Acute VNS and taVNS did not improve verbal memory performance. Immediate recall and delayed recognition scores were significantly improved after 6 weeks of VNS treatment irrespective of the acute intervention. We can conclude that the previously described positive effects of invasive VNS on verbal memory performance could not be replicated with invasive VNS and taVNS. An improved verbal memory performance was seen after 6 weeks of VNS treatment, suggesting that longer and more repetitive stimulation of the vagal pathway is required to modulate verbal memory performance.Clinical trial registration number: NCT05031208.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mertens
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefanie Gadeyne
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Emma Lescrauwaet
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Evelien Carrette
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alfred Meurs
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Veerle De Herdt
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frank Dewaele
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Robrecht Raedt
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke Miatton
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Boon
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Kristl Vonck
- Department of Neurology, 4BRAIN Research Group, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Batson S, Shankar R, Conry J, Boggs J, Radtke R, Mitchell S, Barion F, Murphy J, Danielson V. Efficacy and safety of VNS therapy or continued medication management for treatment of adults with drug-resistant epilepsy: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol 2022; 269:2874-2891. [PMID: 35034187 PMCID: PMC9119900 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-10967-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) Therapy® is an adjunctive neurostimulation treatment for people with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) who are unwilling to undergo resective surgery, have had unsuccessful surgery or are unsuitable for surgery. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the treatment effects of VNS Therapy as an adjunct to anti-seizure medications (ASMs) for the management of adults with DRE. A literature search was performed in August 2020 of the Medline®, Medline® Epub Ahead of Print, Embase, and the Cochrane library databases. Outcomes examined included reduction in seizure frequency, seizure freedom, ASM load, discontinuations, and serious adverse events (SAEs). Comparators included best medical practice, ASMs, low-stimulation or sham VNS Therapy. Four RCTs and six comparative observational studies were identified for inclusion. Against comparators, individuals treated with VNS had a significantly better odds of experiencing a ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency (OR: 2.27 [95% CI 1.47, 3.51]; p = 0.0002), a ≥ 75% reduction in seizure frequency (OR: 3.56 [95% CI 1.59, 7.98]; p = 0.002) and a reduced risk for increased ASM load (risk ratio: 0.36 [95% CI 0.21, 0.62]; p = 0.0002). There was no difference in the odds of discontinuation or the rate of SAEs between VNS versus comparators. This meta-analysis demonstrated the benefits of VNS Therapy in people with DRE, which included improvement in seizure frequency without an increase in the rate of SAEs or discontinuations, thereby supporting the consideration of VNS Therapy for people who are not responding to ASMs and those unsuitable or unwilling to undergo surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Batson
- Sarah Batson, Mtech Access Limited, 30 Murdock Road, Bicester, OX26 4PP, Oxfordshire, England.
| | - Rohit Shankar
- Neuropsychiatry, Peninsula School of Medicine, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, England
| | - Joan Conry
- Children's National, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jane Boggs
- Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | - Stephen Mitchell
- Sarah Batson, Mtech Access Limited, 30 Murdock Road, Bicester, OX26 4PP, Oxfordshire, England
| | - Francesca Barion
- Pricing, Health Economics, Market Access and Reimbursement (PHEMAR), LivaNova, London, England
| | - Joanna Murphy
- Pricing, Health Economics, Market Access and Reimbursement (PHEMAR), LivaNova, London, England
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Liu S, Xiong Z, Wang J, Tang C, Deng J, Zhang J, Guo M, Guan Y, Zhou J, Zhai F, Luan G, Li T. Efficacy and potential predictors of vagus nerve stimulation therapy in refractory postencephalitic epilepsy. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2022; 13:20406223211066738. [PMID: 35070253 PMCID: PMC8771757 DOI: 10.1177/20406223211066738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a therapeutic approach for patients with refractory postencephalitic epilepsy (PEE), which is characterized by drug resistance and disappointing surgical outcomes. However, the efficacy of VNS has not yet been studied in patients with refractory PEE. The present study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of VNS and evaluate potential clinical predictors in patients with refractory PEE. METHODS We retrospectively collected the outcomes of VNS with at least a 1-year follow-up in all patients with refractory PEE. Subgroups were classified as responders and non-responders according to the efficacy of VNS (⩾50% or < 50% reduction in seizure frequency). Preoperative data were analyzed to screen for potential predictors of VNS responsiveness. RESULTS A total of 42 refractory PEE patients who underwent VNS therapy were enrolled, with an average age of 21.13 ± 9.70 years. Seizure frequency was reduced by more than 50% in 64.25% of patients, and 7.14% of patients achieved seizure-free events after VNS therapy. In addition, the response rates increased over time, with 40.5%, 50.0% and 57.1%, respectively at 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months after VNS therapy. Preoperative duration of epilepsy, monthly seizure frequency, and spatial distribution of interictal epileptic discharges (IEDs) were correlated with responders (p < 0.05) in the univariate analysis. Further multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that refractory PEE patients with high monthly seizure frequency or Focal IEDs (focal or multifocal epileptiform discharges) achieved better efficacy on VNS (p = 0.010, p = 0.003, respectively). CONCLUSION VNS is an effective palliative therapy for patients with refractory PEE. Focal IEDs (focal or multifocal epileptiform discharges) and high seizure frequency were potential preoperative predictors of effectiveness after VNS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Liu
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhonghua Xiong
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Neurology, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chongyang Tang
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiahui Deng
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mengyi Guo
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuguang Guan
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Zhai
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoming Luan
- Department of Brain Institute, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy Research, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianfu Li
- Department of Neurology, Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, XiangshanYikesong 50, Haidian District, Beijing 100093, China
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Yates CF, Riney K, Malone S, Shah U, Coulthard LG, Campbell R, Wallace G, Wood M. Vagus nerve stimulation: a 20-year Australian experience. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2022; 164:219-227. [PMID: 34755209 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-021-05046-0] [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: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy was first approved in the mid-1990s in the USA, Europe and Australia, with demonstrable efficacy in paediatric populations. Benefit in seizure frequency reduction can be observed up to 2 years post-intervention; however, few studies assess outcomes beyond this period. Furthermore, paediatric cohort sizes are small, limiting generalisability of outcome assessments. We evaluate VNS insertion outcomes and complications or side-effects in a large paediatric cohort, over a 20-year period from Queensland's first VNS insertion. METHODS A retrospective review was conducted of all paediatric VNS insertions at the Queensland Children's Hospital (QCH) and the Mater Children's Hospital/Mater Children's Private Hospital (MCH/MCPH) Brisbane. A minimum of 1-year follow-up from 1999 to 2020 was required for inclusion. Patients were assessed on demographics, epilepsy details, seizure outcomes and complications or side-effects. RESULTS In this extended follow-up cohort (76 patients, 7.2 ± 5.3 years), 51.3% of patients had ≥ 50% seizure frequency reduction, while 73.7% experienced an Engel III outcome (worthwhile benefit) or better. Eleven patients (14.9%) were seizure-free at follow-up, and 81.6% retained long-term therapy. Stimulation-related side-effects are common (17.1%) but rarely result in stimulation cessation (3.9%). Cessation occurred in 14 patients (18.4%) and most commonly related to minimal benefit (13.2%). Demographics, aetiology, seizure nature and surgical factors did not influence outcomes. CONCLUSION Over extended treatment periods, a large proportion of patients will benefit significantly from VNS therapy. Approximately 4 of 5 patients will retain VNS therapy, and in cases of cessation, this is most commonly related to minimal benefit. Underlying demographics, aetiology or seizure nature do not influence outcomes. This 20-year Queensland assessment of VNS therapy outcomes informs long-term expectation of VNS therapy.
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Badran BW, Austelle CW. The Future Is Noninvasive: A Brief Review of the Evolution and Clinical Utility of Vagus Nerve Stimulation. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2022; 20:3-7. [PMID: 35746934 PMCID: PMC9063597 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20210023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a form of neuromodulation that stimulates the vagus nerve. VNS had been suggested as an intervention in the late 1800s and was rediscovered in the late 1980s as a promising treatment for refractory epilepsy. Since then, VNS has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of epilepsy, morbid obesity, and treatment-resistant depression. Unfortunately, VNS is underutilized, as it is costly to implant and often only suggested when all other treatment options have been exhausted. Discovery of a noninvasive method of VNS known as transcutaneous auricular VNS (taVNS), which activates the vagus through stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, has reignited excitement around VNS. taVNS has immense potential as a safe, at-home, wearable treatment for various neuropsychiatric disorders. Major strides are being made in both invasive and noninvasive VNS that aim to make this technology more accessible to patients who would find benefit, including the ongoing RECOVER trial, a randomized controlled trial in up to 1,000 individuals to further evaluate the efficacy of VNS for treatment-resistant depression. In this brief review, we first discuss the early history of VNS; then its clinical utility in FDA-approved indications; and, finally, noninvasive VNS.
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Badran BW, Dowdle LT, Mithoefer OJ, LaBate NT, Coatsworth J, Brown JC, DeVries WH, Austelle CW, McTeague LM, George MS. Neurophysiologic Effects of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) via Electrical Stimulation of the Tragus: A Concurrent taVNS/fMRI Study and Review. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2022; 20:80-89. [PMID: 35746927 PMCID: PMC9063605 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
(Appeared originally in Brain Stimulation 2018; 11:492-500) Reprinted with permission from Elsevier.
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Chan HY, Wijnen BFM, Majoie MHJM, Evers SMAA, Hiligsmann M. Economic evaluation of deep brain stimulation compared with vagus nerve stimulation and usual care for patients with refractory epilepsy: A lifetime decision analytic model. Epilepsia 2021; 63:641-651. [PMID: 34967942 PMCID: PMC9306584 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was undertaken to estimate the cost-effectiveness of deep brain stimulation (DBS) compared with vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and care as usual (CAU) for adult patients with refractory epilepsy from a health care perspective using a lifetime decision analytic model. METHODS A Markov decision analytic model was constructed to estimate the lifetime cost-effectiveness of DBS compared with VNS and CAU. Transition probabilities were estimated from a randomized controlled trial, and assumptions were made in consensus with an expert panel. Primary outcomes were expressed as incremental costs per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) and per responder. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to characterize parameter uncertainty. RESULTS In DBS, 28.4% of the patients were responders, with an average of 21.38 QALYs per patient and expected lifetime health care costs of €187 791. VNS had fewer responders (22.3%), fewer QALYs (20.70), and lower lifetime costs (€156 871). CAU had the fewest responders (6.2%), fewest QALYs (18.74), and lowest total health care costs (€64 670). When comparing with CAU, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) showed that costs per QALY gained were slightly lower for DBS (€46 640) than for VNS (€47 155). When comparing DBS with VNS, an incremental cost per additional QALY gained of €45 170 was found for DBS. Sensitivity analyses showed that ICERs were heavily dependent on assumptions regarding loss to follow-up in the respective clinical trial. SIGNIFICANCE This study suggests that, given current limited evidence, VNS and DBS are potentially cost-effective treatment strategies compared to CAU for patients with refractory epilepsy. However, results for DBS were heavily impacted by assumptions made to extrapolate nonresponse from the original trial. More stringent assumptions regarding nonresponse resulted in an ICER just above an acceptable willingness to pay threshold. Given the uncertainty surrounding the effectiveness of DBS and the large impact of assumptions related to nonresponse, further empirical research is needed to reduce uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Yau Chan
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ben F M Wijnen
- Center for Economic Evaluation and Machine Learning, Trimbos Institute, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marian H J M Majoie
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Center Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, the Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,School of Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Academic Center for Epileptology, Epilepsy Center Kempenhaeghe and Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Silvia M A A Evers
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Center for Economic Evaluation and Machine Learning, Trimbos Institute, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mickaël Hiligsmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Kostov KH, Kostov H, Larsson PG, Henning O, Eckmann CAC, Lossius MI, Peltola J. Norwegian population-based study of long-term effects, safety, and predictors of response of vagus nerve stimulation treatment in drug-resistant epilepsy: The NORPulse study. Epilepsia 2021; 63:414-425. [PMID: 34935136 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) over time, and to determine which patient groups derive the most benefit. METHODS Long-term outcomes are reported in 436 epilepsy patients from a VNS quality registry (52.8% adults, 47.2% children), with a median follow-up of 75 months. Patients were stratified according to evolution of response into constant responders, fluctuating responders, and nonresponders. The effect was evaluated at 6, 12, 24, 36, and 60 months. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify predictors of response. RESULTS The cumulative probability of ≥50% seizure reduction was 60%; however, 15% of patients showed a fluctuating course. Of those becoming responders, 89.5% (230/257) did so within 2 years. A steady increase in effect was observed among constant responders, with 48.7% (19/39) of those becoming seizure-free and 29.3% (39/133) with ≥75% seizure reduction achieving these effects within 2-5 years. Some effect (25%-<50%) at 6 months was a positive predictor of becoming a responder (odds ratio [OR] = 10.18, p < .0001) and having ≥75% reduction at 2 years (OR = 3.34, p = .03). Patients without intellectual disability had ORs of 3.34 and 3.11 of having ≥75% reduction at 2 and 5 years, respectively, and an OR of 6.22 of being seizure-free at last observation. Patients with unchanged antiseizure medication over the observation period showed better responder rates at 2 (63.0% vs. 43.1%, p = .002) and 5 years (63.4% vs. 46.3%, p = .031) than patients whose antiseizure medication was modified. Responder rates were higher for posttraumatic (70.6%, p = .048) and poststroke epilepsies (75.0%, p = .05) than other etiologies (46.5%). SIGNIFICANCE Our data indicate that the effect of VNS increases over time and that there are important clinical decision points at 6 and 24 months for evaluating and adjusting the treatment. There should be better selection of candidates, as certain patient groups and epilepsy etiologies respond more favorably.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hrisimir Kostov
- National Center for Epilepsy, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Oliver Henning
- National Center for Epilepsy, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Morten Ingvar Lossius
- National Center for Epilepsy, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jukka Peltola
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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Broncel A, Bocian R, Konopacki J. Vagal Nerve Stimulation: The Effect on the Brain Oscillatory Field Potential. Neuroscience 2021; 483:127-138. [PMID: 34952159 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.12.023] [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: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
More than thirty years of medical treatment with the use of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) has shown that this therapeutic procedure works in a number of homeostatic disturbances. Although the clinical usage of VNS has a long history, our knowledge about the central mechanisms underlying this treatment is still limited. In the present paper we review the effects of VNS on brain oscillations as a possible electrophysiological bio-marker of VNS efficacy. The review was prepared mainly on the basis of data delivered from clinical observations and the outcomes of electrophysiological experiments conducted on laboratory animals that are available in PubMed. We consciously did not focus on epileptiform activity understood as a pathologic oscillatory activity, which was widely discussed in the numerous previously published reviews. The main conclusion of the present paper is that further, well-designed experiments on laboratory animals are absolutely necessary to address the electrophysiological issues. These will fill a number of gaps in our present knowledge of the central mechanisms underlying VNS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Broncel
- Medical Technology Centre, Natolin 15, 92-701 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Renata Bocian
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, The University of Lodz, Pomorska St. No. 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Jan Konopacki
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, The University of Lodz, Pomorska St. No. 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland.
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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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Bremner JD, Wittbrodt MT, Gurel NZ, Shandhi MH, Gazi AH, Jiao Y, Levantsevych OM, Huang M, Beckwith J, Herring I, Murrah N, Driggers EG, Ko YA, Alkhalaf ML, Soudan M, Shallenberger L, Hankus AN, Nye JA, Park J, Woodbury A, Mehta PK, Rapaport MH, Vaccarino V, Shah AJ, Pearce BD, Inan OT. Transcutaneous Cervical Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Pilot Study of Effects on PTSD Symptoms and Interleukin-6 Response to Stress. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2021; 6:100190. [PMID: 34778863 PMCID: PMC8580056 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2021.100190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly disabling condition associated with alterations in multiple neurobiological systems, including increases in inflammatory and sympathetic function, responsible for maintenance of symptoms. Treatment options including medications and psychotherapies have limitations. We previously showed that transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tcVNS) blocks inflammatory (interleukin (IL)-6) responses to stress in PTSD. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of tcVNS on PTSD symptoms and inflammatory responses to stress. METHODS Twenty patients with PTSD were randomized to double blind active tcVNS (N=9) or sham (N=11) stimulation in conjunction with exposure to personalized traumatic scripts immediately followed by active or sham tcVNS and measurement of IL-6 and other biomarkers of inflammation. Patients then self administered active or sham tcVNS twice daily for three months. PTSD symptoms were measured with the PTSD Checklist (PCL) and the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), clinical improvement with the Clinical Global Index (CGI) and anxiety with the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (Ham-A) at baseline and one-month intervals followed by a repeat of measurement of biomarkers with traumatic scripts. After three months patients self treated with twice daily open label active tcVNS for another three months followed by assessment with the CGI. RESULTS Traumatic scripts increased IL-6 in PTSD patients, an effect that was blocked by tcVNS (p<.05). Active tcVNS treatment for three months resulted in a 31% greater reduction in PTSD symptoms compared to sham treatment as measured by the PCL (p=0.013) as well as hyperarousal symptoms and somatic anxiety measured with the Ham-A p<0.05). IL-6 increased from baseline in sham but not tcVNS. Open label tcVNS resulted in improvements measured with the CGI compared to the sham treatment period p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS These preliminary results suggest that tcVNS reduces inflammatory responses to stress, which may in part underlie beneficial effects on PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Douglas Bremner
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Matthew T. Wittbrodt
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nil Z. Gurel
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - MdMobashir H. Shandhi
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Asim H. Gazi
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Yunshen Jiao
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Oleksiy M. Levantsevych
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Minxuan Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Joy Beckwith
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Isaias Herring
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nancy Murrah
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Emily G. Driggers
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Yi-An Ko
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - MhmtJamil L. Alkhalaf
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Majd Soudan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lucy Shallenberger
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Allison N. Hankus
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jonathon A. Nye
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jeanie Park
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
- Department of Medicine, Renal Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anna Woodbury
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Puja K. Mehta
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mark H. Rapaport
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Viola Vaccarino
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Amit J. Shah
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Bradley D. Pearce
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Omer T. Inan
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
- Coulter Department of Bioengineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
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Transdermal auricular vagus stimulation for the treatment of postural tachycardia syndrome. Auton Neurosci 2021; 236:102886. [PMID: 34634682 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a chronic disorder characterized by symptoms of orthostatic intolerance such as fatigue, lightheadedness, dizziness, palpitations, dyspnea, chest discomfort and remarkable tachycardia upon standing. Non-invasive transdermal vagal stimulators have been applied for the treatment of epilepsy, anxiety, depression, headache, and chronic pain syndromes. Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating effects after transdermal vagal stimulation raised interest for applications in other diseases. Patients with sympathetic overactivity, reduced cardiac vagal drive and presence of systemic inflammation like POTS may benefit from tVNS. This article will address crucial methodological aspects of tVNS and provide preliminary results of its acute and chronic use in POTS, with regards to its potential effectiveness on autonomic symptoms reduction and heart rate modulation.
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