Technical note: preliminary surgical experience with a new implantable epicranial stimulation device for chronic focal cortex stimulation in drug-resistant epilepsy.

PURPOSE

This study is to report some preliminary surgical considerations and outcomes after the first implantations of a new and commercially available implantable epicranial stimulation device for focal epilepsy.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from clinical notes. Outcome parameters were as follows: wound healing, surgery time, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Five patients were included (17-52 y/o; 3 female). Epicranial systems were uneventfully implanted under neuronavigation guidance. Some minor adverse events occurred. Wound healing in primary intention was seen in all patients. Out of these surgeries, certain concepts were developed: Skin incisions had to be significantly larger than expected. S-shaped incisions appeared to be a good choice in typical locations behind the hairline. Preoperative discussions between neurologist and neurosurgeon are mandatory in order to allow for the optimal coverage of the epileptogenic zone with the electrode geometry.

CONCLUSION

In this first small series, we were able to show safe implantation of this new epicranial stimulation device. The use of neuronavigation is strongly recommended. The procedure is simple but not trivial and ideally belongs in the hands of a neurosurgeon.