Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects over 50 million individuals worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent seizures, which can be dangerous, disruptive, and even life-threatening.

While there are various medications available to treat epilepsy, they often present side effects that are difficult to manage, leaving patients with a reduced quality of life. However, there is now a new intervention for epilepsy available in Cyprus that provides patients with a new hope.

What Is the New Intervention for Epilepsy?

The new intervention for epilepsy available in Cyprus is called the Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS) device.

The RNS device is a small, implantable device that provides targeted electrical stimulation to the brain to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. The device is surgically implanted under the scalp and connects to electrodes that are placed in the brain.

The device monitors brain activity and when it detects abnormal activity, it delivers a small electrical current to the brain to interrupt the seizure before it happens.

How Does the RNS Device Work?

The RNS device works by providing targeted electrical stimulation to the brain. The device is programmed to detect and respond to abnormal brain activity, which is often a precursor to a seizure.

When abnormal activity is detected, the device delivers a small electrical current to the brain to interrupt the seizure before it happens. The RNS device is unique in that it provides continuous monitoring of brain activity and therapy, making it more effective in reducing seizure frequency and severity than other epilepsy treatments.

Who Is a Candidate for the RNS Device?

The RNS device is designed for patients who have not responded well to other epilepsy treatments. Candidates for the RNS device often have frequent and disabling seizures, which significantly impact their quality of life.

The device is also suitable for patients who are not candidates for surgery to remove the area of the brain that is causing seizures.

What Is the Effectiveness of the RNS Device?

The RNS device has been shown to be effective in reducing seizure frequency and severity in clinical studies. In one study, patients who received the RNS device experienced a 44% reduction in seizure frequency after one year of treatment.

Additionally, patients who received the RNS device experienced a 31% reduction in seizure frequency after two years of treatment.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects of the RNS Device?

As with any medical intervention, there are risks and side effects associated with the RNS device. The most common side effect is a mild infection at the site of the device, which can be treated with antibiotics.

Other side effects may include temporary language or memory problems, which usually go away after a short time. Overall, the risks and side effects of the RNS device are minimal compared to the potential benefits that it can provide for patients with epilepsy.

Where Can I Get the RNS Device?

The RNS device is available in Cyprus and can be provided by a qualified neurologist or neurosurgeon. Patients who are interested in the RNS device should speak to their doctor to determine if they are a candidate for the device.

Conclusion

The Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS) device is a new intervention for epilepsy that provides targeted electrical stimulation to the brain to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

The device is effective in reducing seizure frequency and severity in patients who have not responded well to other epilepsy treatments. While there are risks and side effects associated with the RNS device, they are minimal compared to the potential benefits that it can provide for patients with epilepsy.