NEUROMODULATION IN EPILEPSY: AN UPDATED REVIEW AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594112423016

• Palavras-chave: Epilepsy, Neuromodulation, Deep Brain Stimulation, Vagus Nerve Stimulation.

• Keywords: Epilepsy, Neuromodulation, Deep Brain Stimulation, Vagus Nerve Stimulation.

• Abstract:

  Objective: Evaluate and synthesize the most recent scientific evidence on neuromodulation techniques used in the treatment of epilepsy, focusing on recent advances and future perspectives. Methodology: Narrative bibliographic review using the PubMed database, using the search terms "Neuromodulation", "Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation", "Deep Brain Stimulation", "Vagal Nerve Stimulation", "Epilepsy", associated with the Boolean operators "OR" and "AND", resulting in 982 articles, of which only 18 became official sources of the study after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Discussion: Studies demonstrate that neuromodulation techniques are effective and safe in reducing the number of seizures in patients with epilepsy. Furthermore, it has direct effects on quality of life and a greater probability of survival of patients, especially those with epilepsy refractory to drug treatment Final Considerations: The lack of specific guidelines, such as intensity and frequency of stimulation, results in heterogeneous long-term effects. Therefore, studies are needed to understand the factors that influence these effects to develop even more effective stimulation protocols.