NeuroPace RNS SystemRachel McAteer

BME 281

Intro:Used to treat medically refractory partial

epilepsy

Refractory epilepsy: Frequent severe seizures that significantly lower the

quality of life Poorly controlled by medication, if at all

Partial epilepsy: Onset of seizures can be localized to a specific area of

the brain

RNS System –Two Main Components

Neurostimulator [internal] Small battery-powered device

Surgically implanted within the cranium Two leads (electrodes) – Cortical Strip Lead, Depth Lead

Programmer [external] Telementary wand Laptop (USB connection) – containing program

How it works:

Leads are implanted on areas of the brain where seizures are suspected to originate

When abnormal electrical activity is detected, the leads deliver electrical stimulation to normalize brain activity

Telementary wand is held over implantation site to retrieve information

Wand is then attached via USB to laptop/program by Programmer

Results:

191 adults tested Two groups, 1:1, double-blind

After 12 weeks: Group receiving stimulation – 37.9% reduction in seizure

frequency Group not receiving stimulation – 17.3% reduction in

seizure frequency

Both groups received stimulation for 84 weeks 2 year follow-up – 50% or greater reduction in seizures

Recently granted pre-market approval by the FDA*

Benefits: Consistently proven to increase the quality of life in patients suffering from refractory partial epilepsy without negative neurological side effects.

Risks: Standard surgical risks (i.e. infection) Intracranial hemorrhage Epidural hematoma Paralysis Seroma CSF leakage Temporary pain Skin erosion around surface of implantation site

* Patients must turn off device before CT scans, should avoid MRIs

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