Epilepsy is a neurological disease that affects an estimated 2 to 3 million people in the United States alone. Despite continuing improvements in medical therapy, up to 40% of those with the condition continue to experience seizure activity while on 2 or more medications. Additionally, although surgery for epilepsy has demonstrated dramatic improvement in some patients, it is considered to be too risky or not likely to be of benefit in the vast majority of patients.
California-based NeuroPace, Inc. is currently producing an implantable device that, it is hoped, will be able to detect the abnormal electrical pattern that develops within the brain prior to a seizure and to then administer a brief series of electrical pulses that will “abort” or “override” the abnormal activity and thus prevent a seizure from developing.
The device, which is known as a Responsive Neurostimulator System, has been cleared for use in clinical trials at 28 medical centers across the United States where up to 10 patients will have the device implanted outside their skull, with small wires inserted into the brain to monitor its electrical activity and to administer the electrical impulses.
NeuroPace points out that the device is not being evaluated as a “stand alone,” or single therapy, but as adjunctive (additional) therapy that will be used in addition to medication.
The study period is expected to last for anywhere from 2 to 3 years and will be limited to those 18 years of age or older that meet the additional medical requirements for participation in the clinical trial.
For More Information
See the NeuroPace home page for more details regarding topics mentioned elsewhere in this post.
Notes
Bergey, GB, et al (2002): Implementation of an external responsive neurostimulator system (eRNS) in patients with intractable epilepsy undergoing intracranial seizure monitoring. Epilepsia 43, Suppl. 7.
