Treatment

Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

Overview

Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is a treatment that uses a small medical device, called a vagus nerve stimulator, to send electrical signals to your vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is one of the most important nerves in the body. It helps control key functions like heart rate, digestion, mood and brain activity. VNS therapy is used especially for people who have epilepsy or depression that doesn’t improve with regular medicines. The device is usually placed under the skin in the chest with a wire connected to the vagal nerve in the neck.

Why Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is Required?

• When medications do not control epileptic seizures effectively (drug-resistant epilepsy).
• For people with treatment-resistant depression who have not improved with antidepressants.
• Helps in conditions related to vagus nerve dysfunction, including vagus nerve symptoms like anxiety, inflammation, or poor digestion.
• Used in some chronic pain and inflammatory diseases where vagal stimulation can help regulate body systems.
• Assists in vagus nerve damage test management and recovery by supporting nerve function.

Key Advantages of VNS Treatment

• Reduces the frequency and intensity of seizures in epilepsy patients.
• Helps improve mood and emotional well-being in people with major depression.
• Supports the natural balance of nervous system activity (vagus nerve function).
• Reduces reliance on high-dose medications, which often have side effects.
• Enhances vagus nerve role in digestion, inflammation control, and sleep.
• Non-pharmacological approach for long-term management.
• Some patients report better quality of life with fewer symptoms and more energy.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Vagus Nerve Stimulation Treatment

• Discuss all your symptoms, past treatments, and expectations with your doctor.
• Undergo tests to assess your vagus nerve function, seizure activity or mood status.
• Ask your doctor if you’re a good candidate for a vns implant or vagus nerve stimulator device.
• You may need imaging scans or blood tests before surgery.
• Understand how the vns stimulator will be adjusted post-surgery and what to expect.

How Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Treatment is Performed?

• A vns surgery is done under general anesthesia, usually taking 1-2 hours.
• A small vagal stimulator implant (like a pacemaker) is placed in the chest.
• A thin wire is connected from the device to the vagal nerve in the neck.
• The nerve stimulator is programmed externally to deliver signals at set intervals.
• The settings of the vagus nerve stimulation device can be adjusted over time by your doctor.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Pre-surgery checkups including blood tests and general anesthesia instructions.
• Fasting a few hours before surgery might be necessary.
• Discussion about the surgical steps and potential risks.
• During Procedure:
• Surgery typically takes 60–90 minutes.
• You will be asleep and monitored throughout the process.
• The vagus nerve stimulator implant is placed and tested.
• After Procedure:
• You can go home the same day or next day.
• Slight swelling or discomfort near the neck and chest incision.
• Device activation usually happens a few weeks later.
• Follow-ups are needed to fine-tune the device settings.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Temporary hoarseness or voice changes after stimulation
• Mild neck pain or throat discomfort
• Difficulty swallowing during stimulation
• Infection at the site of vns implant
• Rare risks like bleeding or device malfunction
• Some patients may need vns stimulator adjustments for better comfort

Results/Outcomes

• Many patients experience fewer seizures or mood improvements over time.
• Long-term vagus nerve stimulation shows steady results with fewer side effects.
• Symptoms related to vagus nerve damage may also improve gradually.
• Device settings can be optimized to match individual needs.
• Outcomes improve with regular follow-ups and personalised care.