Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): A "Smart" Implant That Detects and Stops Seizures
For individuals living with drug-resistant focal epilepsy, traditional medications do not always
provide adequate seizure control. When seizures originate from critical or multiple areas of the
brain that cannot be safely removed without causing neurological deficits, advanced surgical
neuromodulation provides an innovative alternative.
Among these advances is Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)—a "smart," closed-loop technology
designed to monitor, detect, and respond to abnormal brain activity in real time.
How the RNS System Works
Unlike traditional neuromodulation devices that deliver continuous or pre-scheduled electrical
stimulation, the RNS system operates on a closed-loop mechanism that responds dynamically to the
brain’s activity.
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Implantation: A neurosurgeon implants a small neurostimulator flush within the skull. Thin, flexible leads with recording and stimulating depth or strip electrodes are positioned precisely at the identified seizure focus (or up to two foci).
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Continuous Monitoring: The device acts as a continuous electroencephalogram (EEG), monitoring and recording the electrical activity of the brain 24 hours a day.
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Early Detection: The device is custom-programmed to recognize individual, subtle electrical patterns that signal the start of a seizure.
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Targeted Response: Within milliseconds of detecting abnormal activity, the RNS device delivers tiny, imperceptible electrical pulses directly to the seizure focus to disrupt the abnormal rhythm before a clinical seizure can develop.
Candidate Selection for RNS
Evaluating a patient for RNS involves comprehensive diagnostic mapping to pinpoint the exact origin
of seizure activity. Ideal candidates generally include:
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Adults and adolescents with drug-resistant focal epilepsy.
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Patients with no more than two identified seizure foci.
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Individuals whose seizure origin is located in eloquent brain tissue—such as areas responsible for speech, motor control, or memory—where surgical removal (resection) is not an option.
Long-Term Benefits and Diagnostic Insights
In addition to reducing seizure frequency, the RNS system provides diagnostic benefits. Patients
use a remote monitor at home to upload daily data collected by the neurostimulator to a secure
database.
Your care team can analyze these long-term brain electrical trends over months and years, allowing
neurosurgeons to fine-tune the device settings and optimize seizure control for every individual.
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Book Online: Visit igeaneuro.com to request a comprehensive diagnostic consultation with our neurosurgical team.
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Call Our Team Today: Speak directly with our dedicated patient care coordinators at (866) 467-1770.
