Keith K. Starnes, II, M.D.

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SUMMARY

The research of Keith K. Starnes II, M.D., centers around increasing the understanding of neuromodulation techniques to treat epilepsy. This includes tailoring approaches of existing devices, investigating novel neurostimulation modalities and examining potential biomarkers to guide future neuromodulation.

Focus areas

• Noninvasive brain stimulation. This refers to neurostimulation techniques that do not require surgery and do not permanently alter brain structure. But noninvasive brain stimulation can be used to potentially improve seizure control. Dr. Starnes' research has included trials of novel noninvasive brain stimulation devices in children and adults.
• Expansion of available neuromodulation devices. Dr. Starnes has investigated new ways of providing neurostimulation for epilepsy, including novel parameters and targets.
• Biomarker discovery. Using data from patients treated with both invasive and noninvasive brain stimulation devices, Dr. Starnes' research has focused on factors that might influence responses to these techniques and could help decide how to apply them in the future.

Significance to patient care

When medicines don't control seizures, healthcare professionals can consider many other options. Neurostimulation is appealing because another medicine doesn't need to be taken. It's also generally safe and well tolerated. Learning more about this technology will allow healthcare professionals to provide better options for people with epilepsy and tailor their approaches to each patient's needs.