ARTICLE
Despite the development of new epilepsy medications, approximately one-third of pediatric patients with epilepsy remain medically refractory. While anti-seizure drugs remain the mainstay of treatment, efforts are underway to expand nonpharmaceutical options to decrease seizure frequency and improve quality of life.
The following is an overview of some of these advances — from new surgical approaches and devices to websites and apps.
Neuromodulatory/neurostimulatory devices
New types of neuromodulatory devices have been approved to treat epilepsy (as well as other neurologic disorders). These treatments offer an alternative for medically resistant patients who often struggle with complex polypharmacy or live with unacceptable side effects. While these devices may require surgery, intracranial procedures may not be necessary. Trials also are underway for noninvasive neuromodulatory devices.
