Construction of rules for seizure prediction based on approximate entropy

Abstract Objective In this study on the analysis of EEG signals for seizure prediction, we used a combination of statistically relevant theory and nonlinear dynamics to maximize the sensitivity of nonlinear analysis and improved prediction accuracy (PA) and effectiveness. Methods First, a physiological reference range of approximate entropy (ApEn) was set up based on normal EEG data. Second, using the concept of global optimization, all EEG electrodes were used in the study regardless of the location of epileptic foci, and the five-electrode group with the strongest synchronization discharge was employed as the optimal electrode group for the next prediction. We set a warning signal when the ApEn values of the data were below the reference range in five electrodes at the same time. Results From the overall 142.7-h EEG signal containing 37 seizures from nine epileptics, our PA was 94.59%, the false prediction rate was 0.084/h, and the mean prediction time was 26.64 min. Conclusion Combining statistically relevant theory and nonlinear dynamics can significantly improve the sensitivity of the nonlinear analysis in seizure prediction. Significance This method may provide a theoretical foundation for the development of a clinical real-time warning system for patients with partial epilepsy.