Fresh data on epilepsy are presented in the report 'An update on brain stimulation for epilepsy.' "Brain stimulation for epilepsy has been explored for decades. Nevertheless, this area has traditionally been associated with small poorly controlled trials, inconsistent results, and a resultant lack of widespread use of these technologies," scientists writing in the journal Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports report (see also Epilepsy).

"Due to the success of deep brain stimulation for movement disorders and unprecedented advances in computer technology and bioengineering, brain stimulation recently has again generated great interest in epilepsy care. Several large-scale, randomized, blinded, multicenter trials have been conducted; the most up-to-date findings are summarized in this article. These treatment modalities will likely improve over time," wrote C.T. Anderson and colleagues, University of Pennsylvania, Epilepsy Center.

The researchers concluded: "The hope that they provide to patients with refractory epilepsy cannot be underestimated."

Anderson and colleagues published their study in Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports (An update on brain stimulation for epilepsy. Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports, 2009;9(4):327-32).

Additional information can be obtained by contacting C.T. Anderson, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Dept. of Neurology, Penn Epilepsy Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA..

The publisher of the journal Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports can be contacted at: Springer, 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013, USA.

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