Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) is a treatment for epilepsy that involves implanting a small device to deliver regular, mild electrical pulses to the vagus nerve in the neck. The vagus nerve carries signals between the brain and body, and stimulating it can help reduce seizure frequency and severity.
VNS is typically considered for patients who continue to have seizures despite trying two or more anti seizure medications and who are not candidates for resective epilepsy surgery.
How the Procedure Works
Dr. Waldron implants the VNS system through two small incisions: one on the left side of the neck to attach the electrode to the vagus nerve, and one on the upper left chest to place the pulse generator. The device is programmed to deliver electrical pulses at regular intervals. Patients also receive a handheld magnet for on demand stimulation.
- Small pulse generator implanted under the skin in the chest
- Electrode attached to the left vagus nerve in the neck
- Programmable stimulation delivered automatically at set intervals
- Handheld magnet for on demand stimulation during seizure activity
What Recovery Looks Like
The procedure is typically performed as outpatient surgery or with a one night hospital stay. Recovery is brief, with most patients returning to normal activities within a week. VNS effectiveness builds over time, with many patients seeing meaningful improvement over the first three to six months.