Responsive Neurostimulation or RNS® is an innovative treatment for drug resistant epilepsy. Much like Deep Brain Stimulation, it involves the precise placement of electrodes into the brain or on it, and connecting them to a power source. The RNS® device is designed to work in a “closed-loop” system – it monitors the brain’s activity at all times, it is trained to detect unusual electrical activity which can lead to a seizure, and then it quickly responds by delivering a small burst of stimulation to return the brain waves to normal, preventing a seizure.
The RNS® is designed to treat drug-resistant focal or partial seizures, and each implantation is carefully planned around a patient’s specific type of epilepsy. Therefore, to determine if a patient is suitable for an RNS® device, an extensive workup by a multi-disciplinary team is often necessary. If you think you or a loved one may be a candidate for RNS® please talk to your doctor, or use our Specialist Finder to find an expert near you. For more information, you can also turn to our colleagues at the Epilepsy foundation, at Responsive Neurostimulation for Seizures | Epilepsy Foundation