scholarly journals Efficacy and potential predictors of vagus nerve stimulation therapy in refractory postencephalitic epilepsy

2022 ◽  
Vol 13 ◽  
pp. 204062232110667
Author(s):  
Siqi Liu ◽  
Zhonghua Xiong ◽  
Jing Wang ◽  
Chongyang Tang ◽  
Jiahui Deng ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Univariate Analysis ◽  
Palliative Therapy ◽  
Multivariate Regression Analysis ◽  
Clinical Predictors ◽  
Epileptiform Discharges

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.

scholarly journals Vagus nerve stimulation may be a sound therapeutic option in the treatment of refractory epilepsy

2013 ◽  
Vol 71 (1) ◽  
pp. 25-30 ◽  
Author(s):  
Murilo S. Meneses ◽  
Samanta F. B. Rocha ◽  
Cristiane Simão ◽  
Heraldo Nei Hardt Laroca dos Santos ◽  
Cleudi Pereira ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Palliative Treatment ◽  
Refractory Epilepsy ◽  
Therapeutic Option ◽  
Treatment Objective

INTRODUCTION: Refractory epilepsy accounts for 20 to 30% of epilepsy cases and remains a challenge for neurologists. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an option for palliative treatment. OBJECTIVE: It was to study the efficacy and tolerability of VNS in patients implanted with a stimulator at the Curitiba Institute of Neurology (INC). METHODS: A case study of six patients with refractory epilepsy submitted to a VNS procedure at the INC in the last four years was described and discussed. RESULTS: Mean age at time of implantation was 29 years. Mean follow-up was 26.6 months. Seizure frequency decreased in all patients (40-50% (n=2) and >80% (n=4)). Three patients no longer required frequent hospitalizations. Two patients previously restricted to wheelchairs started to walk, probably because of improved mood. CONCLUSION: In this population, VNS proved to be a sound therapeutic option for treating refractory epilepsy.

scholarly journals Vagus nerve stimulation for children with treatment-resistant epilepsy: a consecutive series of 141 cases

2011 ◽  
Vol 7 (5) ◽  
pp. 491-500 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert E. Elliott ◽  
Shaun D. Rodgers ◽  
Luigi Bassani ◽  
Amr Morsi ◽  
Eric B. Geller ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Senior Author ◽  
Consecutive Series ◽  
Older Children ◽  
Treatment Resistant ◽  
Off Label

Object The authors undertook this study to analyze the efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in a large consecutive series of children 18 years of age and younger with treatment-resistant epilepsy and compare the safety and efficacy in children under 12 years of age with the outcomes in older children. Methods The authors retrospectively reviewed 141 consecutive cases involving children (75 girls and 66 boys) with treatment-resistant epilepsy in whom primary VNS implantation was performed by the senior author between November 1997 and April 2008 and who had at least 1 year of follow-up since implantation. The patients' mean age at vagus nerve stimulator insertion was 11.1 years (range 1–18 years). Eighty-six children (61.0%) were younger than 12 years at time of VNS insertion (which constitutes off-label usage of this device). Results Follow-up was complete for 91.8% of patients and the mean duration of VNS therapy in these patients was 5.2 years (range 25 days–11.4 years). Seizure frequency significantly improved with VNS therapy (mean reduction 58.9%, p < 0.0001) without a significant reduction in antiepileptic medication burden (median number of antiepileptic drugs taken 3, unchanged). Reduction in seizure frequency of at least 50% occurred in 64.8% of patients and 41.4% of patients experienced at least a 75% reduction. Major (3) and minor (6) complications occurred in 9 patients (6.4%) and included 1 deep infection requiring device removal, 1 pneumothorax, 2 superficial infections treated with antibiotics, 1 seroma/hematoma treated with aspiration, persistent cough in 1 patient, severe but transient neck pain in 1 patient, and hoarseness in 2 patients. There was no difference in efficacy or complications between children 12 years of age and older (FDA-approved indication) and those younger than 12 years of age (off-label usage). Linear regression analyses did not identify any demographic and clinical variables that predicted response to VNS. Conclusions Vagus nerve stimulation is a safe and effective treatment for treatment-resistant epilepsy in young adults and children. Over 50% of patients experienced at least 50% reduction in seizure burden. Children younger than 12 years had a response similar to that of older children with no increase in complications. Given the efficacy of this device and the devastating effects of persistent epilepsy during critical developmental epochs, randomized trials are needed to potentially expand the indications for VNS to include younger children.

scholarly journals Efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation in brain tumor–associated intractable epilepsy and the importance of tumor stability

2013 ◽  
Vol 119 (2) ◽  
pp. 520-525 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kunal S. Patel ◽  
Nelson Moussazadeh ◽  
Werner K. Doyle ◽  
Douglas R. Labar ◽  
Theodore H. Schwartz
Keyword(s):  
Brain Tumor ◽  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Tumor Progression ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Malignant Tumors ◽  
Intractable Epilepsy ◽  
Postoperative Seizure

Object Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a viable option for patients with medically intractable epilepsy. However, there are no studies examining its effect on individuals with brain tumor–associated intractable epilepsy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of VNS in patients with brain tumor–associated medically intractable epilepsy. Methods Epilepsy surgery databases at 2 separate epilepsy centers were reviewed to identify patients in whom a VNS device was placed for tumor-related intractable epilepsy between January 1999 and December 2011. Preoperative and postoperative seizure frequency and type as well as antiepileptic drug (AED) regimens and degree of tumor progression were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using odds ratios and t-tests to examine efficacy. Results Sixteen patients were included in the study. Eight patients (50%) had an improved outcome (Engel Class I, II, or III) with an average follow-up of 39.6 months. The mean reduction in seizure frequency was 41.7% (p = 0.002). There was no significant change in AED regimens. Seizure frequency decreased by 10.9% in patients with progressing tumors and by 65.6% in patients with stable tumors (p = 0.008). Conclusions Vagus nerve stimulation therapy in individuals with brain tumor–associated medically intractable epilepsy was shown to be comparably effective in regard to seizure reduction and response rates to the general population of VNS therapy patients. Outcomes were better in patients with stable as opposed to progressing tumors. The authors' findings support the recommendation of VNS therapy in patients with brain tumor–associated intractable epilepsy, especially in cases in which imminent tumor progression is not expected. Vagus nerve stimulation may not be indicated in more malignant tumors.

scholarly journals Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Epilepsy: The Notre-Dame Hospital Experience

2011 ◽  
Vol 38 (6) ◽  
pp. 902-908 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mehdi Qiabi ◽  
Alain Bouthillier ◽  
Lionel Carmant ◽  
Dang Khoa Nguyen
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Chart Review ◽  
Refractory Epilepsy ◽  
Partial Epilepsy ◽  
Antiepileptic Medication ◽  
Epileptic Patients

Purpose:Retrospective study assessing the efficacy and tolerability of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for the treatment of refractory epilepsy at Notre-Dame Hospital.Methodology:Chart review of all adult epileptic patients treated by VNS with ≥ 1 year follow-up. Responders were defined as patients with ≥ 50% reduction of baseline seizure frequency.Results:Thirty-four patients (14M; mean age = 29.9 yrs) received a VNS. Sub-pectoralis implantation (n = 25) was more frequent than subcutaneous (n = 9). Most patients suffered from intractable partial epilepsy. After 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, and 36 months, 14/34 patients (41%), 16/34 patients (47%), 17/30 patients (57%) and 12/20 patients (60%) respectively were responders. Two patients (6%) became seizure-free. Complications related to implantation were minor: eight cases of limited cervical hypoesthesia, two minor scar infections and one Horner syndrome. Adverse events (voice hoarseness, throat paresthesia, coughing) related to stimulation were generally mild and tended to wane over time. However, a reduction in seizure frequency did not translate into a reduction in medication, as only 9% of responders had less antiepileptic medication at last follow-up compared to baseline.Conclusion:VNS as practiced at Notre-Dame hospital is an efficacious and safe treatment for refractory epilepsy. Quotas allotted to epilepsy centers in the province of Quebec should be lifted or increased to allow more patients to benefit from this therapeutic device.

Vagus nerve stimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy

2019 ◽  
Vol 20 (3) ◽  
pp. 189-198 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laura Pérez-Carbonell ◽  
Howard Faulkner ◽  
Sean Higgins ◽  
Michalis Koutroumanidis ◽  
Guy Leschziner
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Therapeutic Option ◽  
Drug Resistant ◽  
Drug Resistant Epilepsy ◽  
Randomised Controlled

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulatory therapeutic option for drug-resistant epilepsy. In randomised controlled trials, VNS implantation has resulted in over 50% reduction in seizure frequency in 26%–40% of patients within 1 year. Long-term uncontrolled studies suggest better responses to VNS over time; however, the assessment of other potential predictive factors has led to contradictory results. Although initially designed for managing focal seizures, its use has been extended to other forms of drug-resistant epilepsy. In this review, we discuss the evidence supporting the use of VNS, its impact on seizure frequency and quality of life, and common adverse effects of this therapy. We also include practical guidance for the approach to and the management of patients with VNS in situ.

Vagus nerve stimulation for complex partial seizures: surgical technique, safety, and efficacy

1993 ◽  
Vol 78 (1) ◽  
pp. 26-31 ◽  
Author(s):  
Howard J. Landy ◽  
R. Eugene Ramsay ◽  
Jeremy Slater ◽  
Roy R. Casiano ◽  
Robert Morgan
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Vocal Cord ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vocal Cord Dysfunction ◽  
High Current ◽  
Partial Seizures ◽  
Complex Partial Seizures ◽  
Stimulation Group

✓ Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve has shown efficacy in controlling seizures in experimental models, and early clinical trials have suggested possible benefit in humans. Eleven patients with complex partial seizures were subjected to implantation of vagus nerve stimulators. Electrode contacts embedded in silicone rubber spirals were placed on the left vagus nerve in the low cervical area. A transcutaneously programmable stimulator module was placed in an infraclavicular subcutaneous pocket and connected to the electrode. One patient required replacement of the system due to electrode fracture. Another patient developed delayed ipsilateral vocal-cord paralysis; the technique was then modified to allow more tolerance for postoperative nerve edema. A third patient showed asymptomatic vocal-cord paresis on immediate postoperative laryngoscopy. Vagus nerve stimulation produces transient vocal-cord dysfunction while the current is on. Nine patients were randomly assigned to receive either high- or low-current stimulation, and seizure frequency was recorded. The high-current stimulation group showed a median reduction in seizure frequency of 27.7% compared to the preimplantation baseline, while the low-current stimulation group showed a median increase of 6.3%. This difference approached statistical significance. The entire population then received maximally tolerable stimulation. The high-current stimulation group showed a further 14.3% reduction, while the low-current stimulation group showed a 25.4% reduction compared to the blinded period. The efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation seemed to depend on stimulus parameters, and a cumulative effect was evident. These results are encouraging, and further study of this modality as an adjunct treatment for epilepsy is warranted.

Vagus nerve stimulation for partial and generalized epilepsy from infancy to adolescence

2012 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 200-205 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eric M. Thompson ◽  
Susan E. Wozniak ◽  
Colin M. Roberts ◽  
Amy Kao ◽  
Valerie C. Anderson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Seizure Frequency ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Pediatric Patients ◽  
Medication Use ◽  
Partial Epilepsy ◽  
Seizure Duration ◽  
Antiepileptic Medication ◽  
Generalized Epilepsy

Object Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is approved by the FDA for the treatment of partial epilepsy in patients older than 12 years. Authors of the current study performed a large retrospective analysis and comparison of VNS outcomes in children with an age ≥ and < 12 years, including those with partial and generalized epilepsy. Methods A retrospective review of the records of pediatric patients (age < 18 years) who had undergone primary VNS system implantation between 2001 and 2010 by a single pediatric neurosurgeon was undertaken. Considered data included demographics, epilepsy type (partial vs generalized), seizure frequency, seizure duration, postictal period duration, and antiepileptic medication use. Results One hundred forty-six patients (49% female) were followed up for a mean of 41 months after VNS implantation. Thirty-two percent of patients had partial epilepsy and 68% had generalized epilepsy. After VNS system implantation, seizure frequency was reduced in 91% of patients, seizure duration in 50%, postictal period in 49%, and antiepileptic medication use in 75%. There was no significant difference in age, sex, or duration of follow-up according to epilepsy type. Neither was there any significant difference in seizure frequency reduction, seizure duration, postictal period, medication use, overall clinical improvement, or improvement in quality of life based on an age ≥ or < 12 years or epilepsy type. Conclusions Vagus nerve stimulation reduced both seizure frequency and antiepileptic medication use in the majority of pediatric patients regardless of sex, age cohort, or epilepsy type. Vagus nerve stimulation also reduced seizure duration and postictal period in approximately half of the pediatric patients. Contrary to expectation, children with partial epilepsy do not benefit from VNS at higher rates than those with generalized epilepsy.

Long term effect of vagus nerve stimulation in pediatric intractable epilepsy: an extended follow-up

2016 ◽  
Vol 32 (4) ◽  
pp. 641-646 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ayse Serdaroglu ◽  
Ebru Arhan ◽  
Gökhan Kurt ◽  
Atilla Erdem ◽  
Tugba Hirfanoglu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Intractable Epilepsy ◽  
Term Effect ◽  
Long Term Effect

Vagus Nerve Stimulation Paired With Upper-Limb Rehabilitation After Stroke: One-Year Follow-up

2020 ◽  
Vol 34 (7) ◽  
pp. 609-615
Author(s):  
Jesse Dawson ◽  
Navzer D. Engineer ◽  
Cecília N. Prudente ◽  
David Pierce ◽  
Gerard Francisco ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Ischemic Stroke ◽  
Vagus Nerve ◽  
Upper Limb ◽  
Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Vagus Nerve Stimulation ◽  
Exercise Program ◽  
Home Exercise ◽  
Home Exercise Program

Background. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) paired with rehabilitation may improve upper-limb impairment and function after ischemic stroke. Objective. To report 1-year safety, feasibility, adherence, and outcome data from a home exercise program paired with VNS using long-term follow-up data from a randomized double-blind study of rehabilitation therapy paired with Active VNS (n = 8) or Control VNS (n = 9). Methods. All people were implanted with a VNS device and underwent 6 weeks in clinic therapy with Control or Active VNS followed by home exercises through day 90. Thereafter, participants and investigators were unblinded. The Control VNS group then received 6 weeks in-clinic Active VNS (Cross-VNS group). All participants then performed an individualized home exercise program with self-administered Active VNS. Data from this phase are reported here. Outcome measures were Fugl-Meyer Assessment—Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test (Functional and Time), Box and Block Test, Nine-Hole Peg Test, Stroke Impact Scale, and Motor Activity Log. Results. There were no VNS treatment–related serious adverse events during the long-term therapy. Two participants discontinued prior to receiving the full crossover VNS. On average, participants performed 200 ± 63 home therapy sessions, representing device use on 57.4% of home exercise days available for each participant. Pooled analysis revealed that 1 year after randomization, the FMA-UE score increased by 9.2 points (95% CI = 4.7 to 13.7; P = .001; n = 15). Other functional measures were also improved at 1 year. Conclusions. VNS combined with rehabilitation is feasible, with good long-term adherence, and may improve arm function after ischemic stroke.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document