Neurostimulation for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy

<p>This <strong>systematic review and meta-analysis</strong> evaluates the effectiveness and safety of <strong>responsive neurostimulation (RNS)</strong> in children with <strong>drug-resistant epilepsy</strong>. By analyzing 39 studies involving over 400 patients, the researchers found that approximately <strong>two-thirds of pediatric patients</strong> experienced a reduction in seizure frequency of at least 50%. While total <strong>seizure freedom</strong> remains rare at roughly 3%, this outcome improved significantly with <strong>longer follow-up durations</strong>, suggesting that the brain benefits from cumulative stimulation over time. The study also highlights that <strong>non-seizure outcomes</strong>, such as improvements in quality of life and cognition, remained stable or positive. Despite a manageable <strong>safety profile</strong> with a 15.8% adverse event rate, the authors emphasize that current evidence relies largely on retrospective data. Ultimately, the source supports the <strong>off-label use</strong> of RNS for pediatric patients while calling for more rigorous, prospective clinical trials.</p>