This review looked at non-invasive neuromodulation, which are ways to stimulate the nervous system without surgery. The review focused on patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, a condition where seizures are not well-controlled by standard medications. Several methods were reviewed, including repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial electrical stimulation (tDCS).
Researchers found that low-frequency rTMS and cathodal tDCS provided the most consistent reductions in seizure frequency and electrical activity between seizures. Another method, transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, showed encouraging results and was noted for having an excellent safety profile. Other methods, such as focused ultrasound and trigeminal nerve stimulation, are still considered investigational and need more testing.
Because the available studies were small and used different methods, the evidence is not yet definitive. These treatments are becoming more relevant for personalized care. Patients should talk to their doctors to see if these emerging options are appropriate for their specific treatment plan.
