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Updated: Aug 6, 2025

Analysis of Gene Expression Changes in the Rat Hippocampus After Deep Brain Stimulation of the Anterior Thalamic Nucleus
Published on: March 8, 2015
Is thalamic deep brain stimulation synergistic with vagus nerve stimulation in drug-resistant genetic generalized
Aafreen Khan1, Erik H Middlebrooks2, Brin Freund1
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
Abstract:
Neuromodulation in epilepsy is a proven treatment for people with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. Dual device therapies are increasingly utilized in people with drug-resistant epilepsy. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) target the thalamus involving the primary neurobiological network in patients with genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE). We report a novel case of combined neuromodulation in a patient with drug-resistant GGE who achieved a partial response with seizure reduction after VNS implantation yet following VNS-DBS polyneurostimulation gradually achieved prolonged seizure freedom. We speculate that by combining the indirect activating effects of VNS with the direct inhibitory effects of DBS, this may provide synergy to thalamic modulated networks. We hypothesize a "rational polytherapy" may exist in some patients with GGE undergoing dual neuromodulation.
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