The Responsive Neuro System (RNS®) is the first and only brain-responsive neurostimulation system designed to prevent epileptic seizures at their source.
The RNS neurostimulator is a small, implantable device connected to wires (or leads) that are placed in up to two seizure onset areas. The device continuously monitors brain activity, detects abnormal patterns, and in response delivers imperceptible electrical pulses to normalize the activity before an individual experiences seizures.
The RNS System was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013 to treat adults with partial onset seizures that are not controlled by medications. The RNS System is currently available in most Level 4 Comprehensive Epilepsy Centers throughout the United States and is broadly covered by private and government insurance.
Patient Story: Five Years Seizure-Free with NeuroPace
Christian's seizures were not controlled even with several medications. Intracranial monitoring plus Wada testing revealed that surgically removing the part of his brain responsible for the seizures was not the best treatment option for him. With NeuroPace RNS, which identifies when the brain is starting to have a seizure and stops it immediately, Christian has been seizure-free for five years. Meet a NeuroPace patient
How the RNS System Helps Prevent Seizures
Constant monitoring: The RNS System continuously monitors brain activity at the seizure source. It works in the background, without the patient feeling anything.
Personalized detection: The device is programmed by physicians to detect early, abnormal electrical patterns that can lead to seizures. These patterns are different for every individual, and the device can be personalized to recognize each brain’s unique “fingerprint.”
Instant treatment: Within milliseconds of detecting abnormal brain activity, the RNS System sends tiny electrical pulses to disrupt the abnormal activity and normalize brainwaves. This real-time response is designed to prevent seizures from occurring.
The RNS System Advantage
Stimulation at the seizure source: The RNS System is the only treatment option that monitors and responds to brain activity directly at the seizure source. It delivers treatment when needed – on average less than 6 minutes of stimulation per day.
Invisible and imperceptible therapy: Once implanted, the RNS System is unnoticeable under an individual’s hair, and device settings are personalized so that stimulation is not felt.
A window to the brain: The RNS System is the only epilepsy therapy that also provides physicians clinically meaningful ongoing data about their patients’ seizure frequency and electrocorticographic activity. The patient uses a simple remote monitor at home to wirelessly collect and upload data from their neurostimulator. The data is made available to their doctor to review and analyze, so that they can improve patient care.
The RNS System is surgically implanted in the skull by a trained neurosurgeon and typically involves an overnight stay in the hospital. The therapy is reversible; the procedure does not involve removing any brain tissue. For many medically refractory partial-onset epilepsy patients who are not candidates for epilepsy surgery, the RNS System provides a clinically proven therapy option to reduce seizure frequency and improve quality of life.