Paediatric Deep Brain Stimulation (pDBS)

Paediatric Deep Brain Stimulation illustration by About Kids Health

An established therapy that presents novel opportunities for the care of children with epilepsy.

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This program is designed for healthcare practitioners seeking knowledge about pDBS (Paediatric Deep Brain Stimulation), and will introduce pDBS, its application to epilepsy, surgical considerations and post-op care management and outcomes.

Case Support

Healthcare providers can present your de-identified case for advice, support and written recommendations.

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This series is facilitated by The Hospital for Sick Children.

Syllabus

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a treatment option for certain conditions that involves surgery to place electrodes within a specific area of the brain. The electrodes are then used to deliver an electrical current to relieve neurological symptoms associated with conditions such as epilepsy. DBS is used to treat epilepsy when other treatments, such as medications or special diets, do not work to relieve symptoms or if the treatments produce unwanted side effects. DBS is not a cure for any of these conditions but can be an effective treatment to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

Introduction to Deep Brain Stimulation

List current indications for deep brain stimulation (DBS) for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE)
Describe the basic mechanisms of DBS
Discuss evidence from literature with regards to DBS in DRE

Stimulation Modalities in Epilepsy

Differentiate amongst the three neuromodulation techniques: deep brain stimulation (DBS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), and vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) for DRE
Review the basic mechanisms of DBS, VNS and RNS
Describe the key predictive patient factors to consider when choosing patients for DBS

DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation ) Surgery

Overview of the surgical procedure
Discuss anatomical targets for DBS lead implantation and common considerations for site selection
Identify surgical contraindications to DBS in DRE