Trigeminal nerve stimulation

Description

This is one of a variety of types of neurostimulation being explored at the moment. It is not yet available for people in the UK.
It is an external stimulator, the size of a mobile phone. It can fit in a pocket, and the wires go up to two pads on the forehead. These pads send a signal to the trigeminal nerve. This nerve extends into the brain. The makers say this nerve is known to play a role in the prevention of seizures.
The current idea is that the pads would be worn mostly at night, and replaced daily.

Company

The External Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation system (eTNS™) called The Monarch™ has been made by NeuroSigma, a medical device company based in Los Angeles.

Who it might help

It is aimed at people with drug resistant epilepsy, aged nine and upwards.

Results

The results so far have shown at least a 50 per cent reduction in seizures, as well as some improvement in people’s moods too. The device is also being considered for people with depression.

Side-effects

A report on side-effects showed skin irritation as the most common one, and something that it has been possible to deal with.

Status of project

In September 2012 the TNS received CE certification. This confirms that it complies with European safety directives. Results were presented at the 10th European Congress on epileptology in September 2012.

Future

More trials need to take place, before it becomes available.
NeuroSigma is also developing electrodes that can be put under the skin and an implantable pulse generator.
For more information see the Neurosigma website

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