Therapy
Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Vagus nerve stimulation implants a device that sends regular electrical pulses to a nerve in the neck to help control epilepsy or depression.
Quick answer
Vagus Nerve Stimulation: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) uses a small implanted device, similar to a pacemaker, connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. It delivers regular mild electrical pulses that can reduce seizures or help mood.
- Why it is done: It is used mainly for epilepsy that is not controlled by medicines and is not suitable for brain surgery, and sometimes for hard-to-treat depression, to reduce the frequency or severity of symptoms.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the device is placed under the skin of the chest and a wire is connected to the vagus nerve through a small cut in the neck.
What it is
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) uses a small implanted device, similar to a pacemaker, connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. It delivers regular mild electrical pulses that can reduce seizures or help mood.
Why it is done
It is used mainly for epilepsy that is not controlled by medicines and is not suitable for brain surgery, and sometimes for hard-to-treat depression, to reduce the frequency or severity of symptoms.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the device is placed under the skin of the chest and a wire is connected to the vagus nerve through a small cut in the neck. It is then programmed and adjusted over time.
Recovery
Recovery from the small operation is quick. The device settings are gradually adjusted over weeks to months to find the best balance of benefit and side effects. Medicines are usually continued.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include voice changes, throat discomfort, cough and, from surgery, infection or bleeding. It reduces rather than cures seizures, and benefits often build up gradually over months.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Vagus Nerve Stimulation: frequently asked questions
Will vagus nerve stimulation stop my seizures?
It usually reduces how often or how severe seizures are, rather than stopping them completely, with benefits often building over months. Medicines are generally continued alongside it.
What side effects can it cause?
The most common are voice changes, a hoarse voice, throat tingling or cough, especially when the device is active. These often lessen over time and can be helped by adjusting the settings.
Related
Other therapy
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Society of British Neurological Surgeons / relevant professional body
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