Responsive neurostimulation in pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of seizure and non-seizure outcomes, safety, and predictors of response.
Debopam Samanta, Manan Nath, Nayana Prabhu et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of responsive neurostimulation (RNS) in 413 pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. The study found a pooled seizure responder rate of 64.8% (95% CI: 59.7%-69.5%) and a pooled adverse event rate of 15.8%. The analysis included 39 studies, predominantly retrospective, with a median follow-up of 18.7 months.
Key findings
- The pooled seizure responder rate was 64.8% (95% CI: 59.7%-69.5%).
- The pooled seizure freedom rate was 2.9% (95% CI: 1.0%-8.0%).
- The pooled adverse event rate was 15.8% (95% CI: 10.9%-22.4%).
- Longer follow-up duration significantly predicted seizure freedom (β = 0.046, p = 0.009).
Why it matters
The findings indicate that RNS can significantly reduce seizures in pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, providing a potential treatment option for this challenging population. Understanding the safety profile and predictors of response is crucial for clinicians considering this intervention.