EpiSave

What is EpiSave?

EpiSave is an advanced algorithm that runs on regular Android smartwatches to automatically detect convulsive epileptic seizures (seizures with visible motor movements like shaking). The algorithm works together with a companion smartphone app that sends immediate alerts to caregivers when a seizure is detected. Think of EpiSave as a "seizure detection system" that can help save lives by automatically recognizing dangerous convulsive seizures and notifying caregivers, especially during sleep when seizures might otherwise go unnoticed.

Why is this important?

Epilepsy affects about 50 million people worldwide. The most dangerous type of seizure is called a "generalized convulsive seizure" (GCS) - these are the seizures where people lose consciousness and have violent shaking movements. These seizures are particularly dangerous because:

• They can cause serious injuries from falls
• They increase the risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP)
• Most dangerous seizures happen at night when no one is watching
• 85% of nighttime seizures go unnoticed

How does EpiSave work?

EpiSave uses the built-in motion sensors in a regular Android smartwatch to detect the characteristic shaking movements of convulsive seizures (seizures with visible motor movements). The app:

1. Continuously monitors the wearer's movements using the smartwatch's motion sensors
2. Uses artificial intelligence to recognize the specific movement patterns of convulsive seizures
3. Sends immediate alerts to caregivers via smartphone when a seizure is detected
4. Includes location information so caregivers know where to find the person

What makes EpiSave special?

• Uses regular smartwatches: No need for expensive, specialized medical devices
• Works 24/7: Monitors continuously, day and night
• Very accurate: Detects 96% of convulsive seizures (seizures with motor movements) with very few false alarms
• Fast detection: Alerts caregivers within 2 seconds of seizure onset
• Affordable: Much cheaper than existing seizure detection devices
• Accessible globally: Works with standard Android smartwatches, making it available in low and middle-income countries
• Easy to use: Works with standard Android smartwatches people already own

Who can benefit from EpiSave?

• People with epilepsy who have convulsive seizures (seizures with visible motor movements)
• Families and caregivers of people with epilepsy
• Anyone at risk of having seizures during sleep
• People who live alone and worry about having seizures

The science behind EpiSave

EpiSave was developed by researchers who studied over 400 people with epilepsy and recorded more than 100 convulsive seizures. The app uses advanced computer algorithms (artificial intelligence) that were trained on this real seizure data to recognize the unique movement patterns that occur during convulsive seizures (seizures with visible motor movements).

The technology has been tested in hospitals with video monitoring and shown to be highly accurate - detecting 96% of seizures with very few false alarms (less than one false alarm per week).

Current status

EpiSave is currently being tested in clinical studies to prove it works safely and effectively in real-world settings. The goal is to get approval from health authorities (FDA in the US and CE in Europe) so it can be made available to people with epilepsy.

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The bigger picture

EpiSave represents a major step forward in epilepsy care by making seizure detection technology accessible and affordable. Instead of requiring expensive, specialized medical devices, EpiSave works with the smartwatches people already use, making life-saving seizure monitoring available to everyone who needs it.

This technology has the potential to:

• Save lives by ensuring seizures are never missed
• Reduce injuries from falls during seizures
• Give families peace of mind
• Help doctors better understand and treat epilepsy
• Make epilepsy care more affordable and accessible worldwide
• Bring life-saving seizure monitoring to low and middle-income countries where expensive medical devices are often unavailable

EpiSave is being developed by the NeuroDigital@NeuroTech research group as a non-profit initiative to make seizure detection technology widely available to people with epilepsy worldwide.