LivaNova PLC has unveiled promising two-year results from its CORE-VNS study, demonstrating significant reductions in generalized tonic-clonic (GTC) seizures among individuals battling drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). The comprehensive data, now published in the esteemed journal Epilepsia, highlights the enduring efficacy of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Therapy™ as an adjunct treatment option.
Impressive Seizure Reduction Sustained Over Two Years
At the 24-month mark, participants experienced a median seizure frequency reduction of 77%, a slight increase from the 74% reduction observed at the 12-month evaluation. Moreover, nearly half of the study group achieved complete seizure freedom, with 43% reporting no GTC seizures in the three months preceding the latest visit. These outcomes are particularly noteworthy given the median epilepsy duration of a decade among participants.
Early Intervention Yields Significant Improvements
Remarkably, a median reduction of 52% in GTC seizures was recorded as early as the three-month follow-up. This early improvement underscores the potential of VNS Therapy™ to provide swift relief, enhancing the quality of life for young patients, as nearly half of those experiencing GTC seizures were under 18 years old. Additionally, the vast majority of participants had not undergone prior surgical interventions for epilepsy, emphasizing the therapy’s role as a viable initial surgical option.
- Participants had a median of six failed anti-seizure medications, some trying up to 20, before VNS implantation.
- Early seizure reduction at three months suggests rapid efficacy of VNS Therapy™.
- High seizure freedom rates indicate substantial long-term benefits for DRE patients.
- Predominantly pediatric population highlights VNS Therapy™ as a crucial option for younger epilepsy sufferers.
The CORE-VNS study, encompassing over 800 individuals from 61 global sites, stands as the most extensive evaluation of VNS Therapy™ to date. With ongoing analysis of 36-month data, LivaNova continues to build on its commitment to advancing epilepsy treatment through rigorous scientific research and collaboration with healthcare professionals worldwide.
VNS Therapy™ offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods, requiring only an outpatient procedure without skull penetration. While approved for reducing partial onset seizures in both adults and children as young as four, its application for primary generalized seizures remains under evaluation by regulatory bodies such as the FDA.
The therapy’s safety profile remains favorable, with typical adverse events including dysphonia, cough, neck pain, and general discomfort. These side effects are consistent with previous findings and are generally manageable, further supporting VNS Therapy™ as a reliable option for patients seeking to control their epilepsy symptoms effectively.
Equipping patients and healthcare providers with robust, evidence-based treatment options is paramount in the fight against drug-resistant epilepsy. VNS Therapy™ not only offers hope for seizure reduction but also enhances the overall prognosis for individuals grappling with this challenging condition. As LivaNova continues to publish long-term data, the medical community remains optimistic about the expanding role of neuromodulation in epilepsy management.
Harnessing the power of VNS Therapy™, LivaNova is paving the way for innovative, patient-centric solutions in epilepsy care. By addressing the critical need for effective treatments in drug-resistant cases, the company not only alleviates the burden on patients and their families but also contributes significantly to the broader landscape of neurological health advancements.
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