RNS® System Feasibility Study

Using standard neurosurgical techniques the surgical team implants the RNS® System, which includes the RNS® Neurostimulator and intracranial NeuroPace® Leads. Up to 4 Leads (Cortical Strips and/or Depth Leads) are placed in or near the epileptogenic focus/foci. The Neurostimulator is placed in the skull and connected to up to 2 Leads. At first the Neurostimulator is programmed to record brain activity (electrographic patterns). The neurologist or neurosurgeon reviews the recorded electrographic patterns and identifies abnormal (epileptiform, or seizure-like) activity. The Neurostimulator is then programmed to detect the abnormal activity.

The RNS® System is programmed to provide responsive stimulation (stimulation is ON or enabled). Upon detecting electrographic patterns, previously identified by the neurologist or neurosurgeon as abnormal (epileptiform, or seizure-like) activity, the Neurostimulator provides brief pulses of electrical stimulation through the Leads to interrupt those patterns. The typical patient is treated with a cumulative total of 5 minutes of stimulation a day.