June 12, 2018
Article published by NIH National Library of Medicine
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy has been an option to treat pharmacoresistant seizures for 30?years. In this update, researchers review the clinical data that support the device’s efficacy in children, adolescents, and adults. They also review its side-effect profile, quality of life and cost benefits, and the impact the device has on sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Researchers then discuss candidate selection and provide guidance on dosing and future models.
Vagus nerve stimulation therapy is an effective treatment for many seizure types and epilepsy syndromes with a predictable and benign side-effect profile that supports its role as the most commonly prescribed device to treat pharmacoresistant epilepsy.