ActiGait implantable drop foot stimulator in multiple sclerosis: a new indication

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Drop foot is a common symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS) impacting mobility.
• Peroneal nerve stimulation is an established therapy for stroke-related drop foot.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of the ActiGait implantable drop foot stimulator in patients with MS.

Main Methods:

• Six MS patients with central leg paresis received the ActiGait stimulator after surface stimulation tests.
• Gait speed, endurance, and safety were assessed at 10 weeks and 1 year post-surgery.
• Patient satisfaction was measured using a questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Gait speed improved by 23.6% at 10 weeks and 36.3% at 1 year.
• 6-minute walking distance increased from 217m to 321m, remaining stable for a year.
• Patients reported significant improvements in mobility, social participation, and quality of life.

Conclusions:

• The ActiGait implantable drop foot stimulator demonstrates sustained improvement in gait speed, endurance, and quality of life in MS patients.
• This device presents a promising new therapeutic option for managing MS-related drop foot.