Vagal nerve stimulator complications

Background

VagusStimulator.jpg
  • Used to treat refractory epilepsy
  • Pulse generator implanted in chest, electric lead attached to vagus nerve in neck
  • Generator stimulates vagal nerve at regular intervals
    • Usually does NOT stimulate right vagus nerve (which innervates heart)
  • Magnet over VNS leads to extra stimulation
    • Patients/caregivers may use magnet in case of aura or breakthrough seizure

Complications

Side Effects[1]

Complications[2]

Evaluation

Management

Disposition

See Also

External Links

References

  1. Serdaroglu A, Arhan E, Kurt G, et al. Long term effect of vagus nerve stimulation in pediatric intractable epilepsy: an extended follow-up. Childs Nerv Syst. 2016;32(4):641-6.
  2. Smyth MD, Tubbs RS, Bebin EM, Grabb PA, Blount JP. Complications of chronic vagus nerve stimulation for epilepsy in children. J Neurosurg. 2003;99(3):500-3.