Optimizing Vagus Nerve Stimulation Parameters in Pediatric Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: A Retrospective Two-Center Study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) remains a major challenge in pediatric neurology, as many children fail to achieve seizure control despite appropriate medications. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) offers an effective adjunctive treatment; however, optimal stimulation parameters for children are not well defined and are often extrapolated from adult protocols. This retrospective two-center cohort study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of VNS in pediatric DRE and to determine stimulation thresholds-particularly output current and duty cycle-most strongly associated with seizure reduction.

Methods

Fifty-two pediatric patients (aged 0-18 years) with DRE who underwent VNS implantation and were followed for at least 12 months were retrospectively analyzed. Stimul

SUBMITTER: Baykan M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12468347 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature