The Vagus Nerve Stimulator or VNS, is a small device which is implanted through
surgery to help control seizures through electrical impulses. The device, which is
implanted under the arm or near the chest, automatically sends electrical impulses
to the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve then sends impulses to the brain which help
control the electrical disturbances which cause a seizure.
Although the impulses are set automatically (your doctor will determine the
frequency), the VNS is also accompanied by a magnet which can be used to prevent
or control a seizure before or during its occurrence. The magnet sends an extra
dose of therapy into the nerve and can also decrease the severity or length of a
seizure.
The VNS surgery usually takes about an hour and is usually performed under
general anesthesia. The surgeon will make two incisions; one under the arm or near
the upper chest area to insert the VNS therapy generator, and another incision on
the left side of the neck to attach the wires to the vagus nerve.
The VNS does not work for every individual with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome but has
shown to have been effective reducing seizures in 75% of individuals with epilepsy.
For more information about the VNS, please visit
http://www.vnstherapy.com/epilepsy/patient/index.asp
surgery to help control seizures through electrical impulses. The device, which is
implanted under the arm or near the chest, automatically sends electrical impulses
to the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve then sends impulses to the brain which help
control the electrical disturbances which cause a seizure.
Although the impulses are set automatically (your doctor will determine the
frequency), the VNS is also accompanied by a magnet which can be used to prevent
or control a seizure before or during its occurrence. The magnet sends an extra
dose of therapy into the nerve and can also decrease the severity or length of a
seizure.
The VNS surgery usually takes about an hour and is usually performed under
general anesthesia. The surgeon will make two incisions; one under the arm or near
the upper chest area to insert the VNS therapy generator, and another incision on
the left side of the neck to attach the wires to the vagus nerve.
The VNS does not work for every individual with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome but has
shown to have been effective reducing seizures in 75% of individuals with epilepsy.
For more information about the VNS, please visit
http://www.vnstherapy.com/epilepsy/patient/index.asp
