People with epilepsy have recurring seizures. For most people with epilepsy, seizures can be controlled with medications. However, in about one-third of patients, medications do not work. This is called drug-resistant epilepsy. Surgery is another option to help control seizures, but not everyone can have the surgery.
Health Quality Ontario Reviews Electrical Stimulation for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
Electrical stimulation involves delivering small electrical pulses to the brain to control seizures. Two of these techniques are called deep brain stimulation and vagus nerve stimulation. Electrical stimulation might be another treatment option for people with drug-resistant epilepsy.
The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has accepted this recommendation.
The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has provided the following response: The Ministry provides funding for this procedure at specialized sites.