Focal Cortex Stimulation for the Treatment of Refractory Epilepsy: Neuropsychological Outcome After 9 Months
Abstract number :
3.274
Submission category :
3. Neurophysiology / 3E. Brain Stimulation
Year :
2024
Submission ID :
411
Source :
www.aesnet.org
Presentation date :
12/9/2024 12:00:00 AM
Published date :
Authors :
Presenting Author: Yaroslav Winter, MD – University Hospital Mainz
David Apel, MD – University Hospital Mainz
Martin Glaser, MD – University Hospital Mainz
Sergiu Groppa, MD – University Hospital Mainz
Andreas Schulze-Bonhage, MD – University Hospital Freiburg
Rationale: A new neurostimulation approach, focal cortical stimulation using epicranial application of stimulating electrodes in epilepsy (EASEE), was recently approved in Europe for the treatment of refractory focal epilepsy. In this type of treatment, the antiseizure effect is achieved through cathodal stimulation of the brain, which may have potentially negative effects on neuropsychological outcomes. Here we present the results of a thorough neuropsychological evaluation of epilepsy patients treated with focal cortex stimulation at our comprehensive epilepsy center.
Methods: A neuropsychological assessment was performed in a cohort of 20 patients with focal refractory epilespsy before the start of focal cortical stimulation and 9 months afterwards. We used the following neuropsychological tests: the German version of the Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), the Wechsler Memory Scale (WSM-IV, visual reproduction), the Regensburger Word Fluency Test (RWT), the five-point test (5 - PT) and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-IV/Mosaiktest).
Results: Seizure frequency decreased by 62% at the 9-month follow-up. The neuropsychological examination at this time showed a statistically significant improvement in figural and semantic word fluency, short-term memory in visual memory and visuospatial-constructive performance compared to the test before the start of focal cortical stimulation (p < 0.05).
Neurophysiology