Aurora BioScience Neurology

VNS Therapy for Pharmacoresistant Epilepsy

 

VNS Therapy Implant Procedure

 

Implanting the device involves a simple surgical procedure, which may mean a short stay in hospital. It is a surgery that takes about an hour or two and is typically done under general anaesthesia. It does NOT involve brain surgery. The medical device (which is a small disc of about 50 mm across and 7 mm in thickness) is placed under the skin just below the left collarbone or close to the left armpit. A second small incision is made in the neck to attach two tiny wires to the left vagus nerve. The only visible signs of VNS Therapy are the two tiny scars (one on your chest and one on your neck), which become less noticeable over time.

 

There are many advantages to having the device with you all the time. For instance, there is nothing to take and no schedules to remember.
 

 

VNS Therapy Follow Up

 

The VNS Therapy device is typically turned on two weeks after surgery. This is done by holding a wand over where the device is fitted. The programming is carried out by your doctor or nurse using a laptop or handheld computer. The device is programmed to deliver tiny electrical pulses automatically, 24 hours a day. A typical dose is about 30 seconds on and five minutes off, but settings may vary.

After the device has been programmed, your doctor or nurse will schedule a series of follow-up visits. With a new VNS Therapy device, you may see your doctor or nurse every two weeks to ensure the stimulation settings are optimum for you. Later, visits may be every few months.