Deep Brain Stimulation for Refractory Epilepsy: Long-term Outcomes and Quality of Life

This study investigates the long-term efficacy and impact on quality of life of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in patients with refractory epilepsy. Despite advancements in antiepileptic drugs, a significant proportion of patients continue to experience debilitating seizures, leading to substantial morbidity and reduced quality of life. DBS has emerged as a promising neuromodulatory treatment for such cases, targeting specific brain regions like the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT) or centromedian nucleus (CMN). While short-to-medium term benefits have been documented, comprehensive data on sustained seizure control, adverse events, and patient-reported outcomes over extended periods remains crucial for clinical decision-making. This research aims to provide a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent DBS for refractory epilepsy, with a follow-up period exceeding five years. We will assess seizure frequency reduction, changes in medication burden, and the incidence and nature of long-term complications. Furthermore, the study will utilize validated quality of life scales (e.g., Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory-31, QOLIE-31) to quantify the psychosocial impact of DBS on patients' daily lives, including mood, cognition, and social functioning. Understanding these long-term outcomes will offer valuable insights into the durability of DBS effects and its overall contribution to improving the lives of individuals living with intractable epilepsy.