P.030 Hippocampal deep brain stimulation provides drastic relief for intractable seizures

Abstract

Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is the application of electrical currents via depth electrodes to regulate neuronal activity. DBS has been shown as a productive intervention for seizure control in patients with drug-resistance. This case had both a failed response to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and a temporal lobectomy. Methods: This case details the evolution of epilepsy in a 29-year-old female with seizures since the age of around 10. The patient has been followed for 6 months to monitor the treatment effects. No medication changes were made post-procedure. Results: The patient experienced a seizure frequency of 2-5 events per month. The patient had a right temporal lobectomy at age 12, which led to only 3 years in remission. The events are complex partial seizures characterized by unresponsive staring, lip smacking, hand automatisms and confusion. The patient failed 7 AEDs. Intracranial recording showed the most frequent activity coming from the left anterior and posterior hippocampus. Two depth electrodes were implanted accordingly. Stimulation began in September 2016 and the patient has since had only 2 seizures. Conclusions: Deep brain stimulation provides extensive relief for this case of intractable epilepsy. The patient’s level of awareness, mood, and quality of life all improved significantly in response to treatment.