World’s first brain implant

Source-This post on World’s first brain implant has been created based on the article “How the world’s first brain implant to control epileptic seizures works” published in “The Indian Express” on 2 July 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, a UK-based teenager became the first person to receive a brain implant designed to control epileptic seizures.

How Does the Brain Implant Work?

1. A neurostimulator is used which is an implantable device that delivers mild electrical pulses to nerves.

2. This neurostimulator delivers constant electrical impulses to the brain to disrupt or block abnormal seizure-causing signals. It is surgically implanted in the skull.

3. Two electrodes are inserted deep into the brain to reach the thalamus, connected to the neurostimulator. The device can be recharged wirelessly.

About Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

1) Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves implanting electrodes within areas of the brain.

2) DBS is used for movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions.

3) It has been used for nearly a decade in treating epilepsy. Traditionally such devices were placed in the chest with wires running to the brain.

Treatment for Epilepsy

1) First Line of Treatment: Doctors initially use anti-seizure medications and a ketogenic diet, which is high in fats and low in carbohydrates, known to reduce seizures.

2) Surgical Options: If medications and diet do not work, brain surgery may be performed to remove the seizure-originating part of the brain.

3) Corpus callosotomy: It is a surgery to remove the part connecting both brain halves. This may be suggested for children to prevent abnormal electrical signals from spreading.

Comparison of Surgery vs. DBS Device

1. Surgery is preferred over DBS devices as it can reduce seizures by nearly 90%, compared to about 40% reduction by DBS devices.

2. DBS is recommended for patients with seizures originating from multiple brain parts or when other treatments fail.

About Epilepsy

1) Epilepsy is a condition that leads to recurring seizures.

2) Caused by: It is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

3) Symptoms: It include jerking of arms and legs, temporary confusion, staring spells, or stiff muscles.

4) Causes: Approximately 50% of epilepsy cases have no identifiable cause. Possible causes include head trauma, brain tumors, infections like meningitis, and genetic factors. Epilepsy can increase the risk of accidents, drownings, and falls.

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