Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of refractory epilepsy

S. Carrette, P. Boon, C Dekeyser, D.C.W. Klooster, E.C.B. Carrette, A. Meurs, R. Raedt, Chris P.J. Baeken, C. Vanhove, A.P. Aldenkamp, K.E.J. Vonck

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Abstract

Introduction: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an established non-invasive neurostimulation technique that is able to induce neuromodulatory effects outlasting the duration of the stimulation train. The cortical excitability disturbance in epilepsy provides a rationale for investigating the efficacy of low-frequency rTMS as a treatment for epilepsy patients. Sofar clinical trials in epilepsy patients have shown conflicting results ranging from ineffective to very effective.
Areas covered: This manuscript provides an overview of the performed studies, retrieved from a PubMed search, and a critical appraisal of their results. A number of conclusions are drawn and potential optimization strategies are discussed.
Expert commentary: Although the therapeutic efficacy of rTMS in refractory epilepsy has not yet been established, the non-invasiveness of the technique warrants further investigation of rTMS as a treatment for epilepsy.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1093-1110
JournalExpert Review of Neurotherapeutics
Volume16
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2016

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