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Vagus Nerve Stimulation As an Adjunctive Neurostimulation Tool in Treatment-resistant Depression
Published on: January 7, 2019
[Ten years' experience with vagus nerve stimulation in a paediatric population]
G Moro-De Faes1, B Serrano-Moyano1, V Cantarin-Extremera1
1Hospital Infantil Universitario Nino Jesus, 28009 Madrid, Espana.
Revista De Neurologia
|November 8, 2018
Summary
The Vagus Nerve Stimulator (VNS) effectively reduces seizures in children with refractory epilepsy. This treatment also shows significant improvements in cognitive and behavioral aspects for pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatric Epilepsy
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Epilepsy affects 50 million people globally, with up to 30% experiencing drug-resistant seizures.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) presents a viable therapeutic alternative for individuals with refractory epilepsy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of VNS in a cohort of pediatric patients diagnosed with refractory epilepsy.
- To assess the impact of VNS on seizure frequency and cognitive-behavioral outcomes in children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 35 pediatric patients who received VNS implantation between 2008 and 2017.
- Inclusion of epidemiological, etiological, clinical, and electrophysiological data, alongside VNS parameters.
Main Results:
- 43% of patients achieved a >= 50% reduction in seizures, with a mean reduction of 67.3%.
- Significant seizure reduction observed at 6 months (33%) and 24 months (47.4%).
- Notable cognitive (57%) and behavioral (53%) improvements were reported, with generally mild side effects (28%).
Conclusions:
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation is a valid treatment option for pediatric refractory epilepsy.
- VNS offers benefits beyond seizure control, positively impacting cognitive and behavioral functions in children.
- The VNS therapy demonstrates significant potential for improving the quality of life in pediatric epilepsy patients.
