Optimizing Neuromodulation Strategies for Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome: Insights from Dr. Depobam Samanta
- Cadiz Salazar
- Feb 5
- 1 min read
For many patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), achieving seizure control remains a major challenge—even with highly effective antiseizure medications. When medications fall short, neuromodulation therapies like vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) offer alternative solutions. But how can we optimize these treatments to maximize their benefits?
Dr. Depobam Samanta, MD, MS, FAAP, FAES, medical director of the Arkansas Children’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, is at the forefront of refining initiation and titration strategies for neuromodulation in LGS. In a recent discussion, he explored cutting-edge techniques to fine-tune stimulation settings, harness automated scheduling features, and explore new approaches like low-frequency, long-duration stimulation for patients who don’t respond to traditional methods.
Earlier this year, the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium (PERC) published a landmark guidance paper on neuromodulation in LGS, highlighting key strategies for initiation, titration, and even the potential benefits of combining multiple neuromodulatory therapies. Dr. Samanta emphasized that starting at lower stimulation levels helps minimize side effects such as nausea, discomfort, or irritation, while carefully adjusting parameters like frequency, pulse width, and intensity allows for a tailored, patient-specific approach.
Looking to the future, artificial intelligence (AI) could revolutionize neuromodulation by identifying super responders—patients who are most likely to benefit from specific interventions—paving the way for truly personalized treatment strategies. However, advancing neuromodulation research comes with challenges, including refining patient selection, improving device programming, and expanding access to these life-changing technologies.
WATCH NOW: Dr. Samanta breaks down the latest innovations in neuromodulation and what’s next for LGS treatment.
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