Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Vagus Nerve Stimulation is a procedure used to control epileptic seizures. It involves the use of a small device about the size of a silver dollar, which sends mild, electrical impulses to the brain via a nerve in the neck called the vagus nerve. Traditionally, to implant the device, surgeons make a small incision in the neck and one below the collarbone. Dr. Trumble has pioneered a technique in which only a single incision (near the collar bone) is used, minimizing surgical time and post-operative pain and scarring. Once the battery-operated, electrical pulse generator is implanted, a flexible, insulated plastic tube containing electrodes is run under the skin to the vagus nerve on the left side of the neck. The generator delivers pulses of electricity to the vagus nerve every five minutes. These pulses block the electrical disturbances in the brain. In our hands, >88% of patients have a >50% reduction in seizures, the best outcomes ever described with vagus nerve stimulation.
Why Stimulate the Vagus Nerve?
Experts focus on the vagus nerve for epilepsy treatment for a couple of reasons. First of all, in addition to being connected to many organs in the body, it is also connected to areas of the brain likely to develop seizures. Secondly, unlike other nerves, it doesn't have many pain fibers. Therefore, it can deliver electricity to targeted areas without requiring any surgery on the brain itself.
How Effective is Vagus Nerve Stimulation and What are the Benefits?
While Vagus Nerve Stimulation completely eliminates seizures in some children, most report that the therapy cuts the occurrence of their seizures in half and reduces their intensity. It is a particularly attractive alternative for children also suffering from medically refractory depression because the vagus nerve stimulator is also FDA approved for treatment of depression. Until now, the only other choice for treatment of patients with medically refractory depression was electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which carries the risk of short-term memory problems.
What are the Risks of Vagus Nerve Stimulation?
The possible risks of VNS include injury to the vagus nerve, which can lead to a hoarse speaking voice, coughing or difficulty swallowing.
Other complications include injury to the carotid artery or internal jugular vein, and, as with other surgical procedures, there is always the risk of infection at the site where the generator is implanted.
Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation The Right Choice For My Child?
Only a board-certified pediatric neurosurgeon can make that determination based upon your child’s unique medical needs. To take the first step, simply call us at 407-236-0006 and a skilled Children’s Care coordinator will work with you and your physician’s office to schedule an appointment, coordinate your child’s care, and answer your questions. Their services are complimentary.
