Vagal Nerve Stimulation for Epilepsy 

VNS Therapy

A vagal nerve stimulator (VNS) is a surgically implanted device that helps manage seizures in clients when medication fails. In VNS therapy, the system sends mild electrical stimulation to the left vagus nerve that runs along the outer aspect of the neck and carries signals to the brain, leading to changes that make the brain more calm and less likely to have seizures. A small pacemaker-like generator device implanted just under the skin in the left chest area delivers electrical impulses to the vagus nerve at regular intervals around the clock, 24 hours a day, every day. Our expert adult and pediatric epilepsy practitioners provide guidance to clients and families who are looking at this treatment option. We also offer a VNS clinic where clients with a VNS device can be seen for interim assessments of their seizure control. Therapeutic adjustments to the VNS parameters can be made.