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Vagus Nerve Stimulation

Although antiseizure medications are the mainstay of treatment for LGS, there are non-pharmacologic adjunctive therapy options that are also available.1 One of them is called vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). In this therapy, an implant sends small electrical impulses to the brain to help control seizures. This therapy option is not approved for the treatment of LGS in the United States.

The vagus nerve is a large nerve in the neck. In VNS, short bursts of electrical energy are directed into the brain through the vagus nerve. The energy comes from a battery-operated device that is surgically implanted under the skin—usually in the chest. The procedure takes 50-90 minutes with the patient under general anesthesia.2

The battery-operated device is programmed to deliver small stimulations to the vagus nerve every few minutes,2 like a pacemaker for the brain. Holding a special magnet over the device can allow users to stimulate the vagus nerve as needed, such as when an "aura" occurs before a seizure.2

In VNS, short bursts of electric energy are directed into the brain to treat seizures.

VNS is used in addition to medicines

In 3 small, published studies, selected patients were given VNS therapy as adjunctive therapy in addition to antiepileptic medication. Approximately three-fourths of patients with LGS experienced more than a 50% reduction in seizure frequency with a follow-up period as long as 5 years.3

Side effects of VNS

VNS therapy may not be for everyone. It can often cause hoarseness during stimulation. Other common side effects include tingling in the throat, shortness of breath with exertion, cough, and occasional stomach problems.4

Talk to your doctor to see what options are available for your loved one.

LGS (Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome) treatment options

LGS Treatment Option

Find out about a prescription treatment that may help reduce seizures associated with LGS.

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References:

  • 1. Hosain S, Nikalov B, Harden C, Li M, Fraser R, Labar D. Vagus nerve stimulation treatment for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. J Child Neurol. 2000;15:509-512.
  • 2. Schachter SC, Sirven JI. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). Epilepsy.com. http://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/devices/vagus-nerve-simulation-vns. Accessed April 21, 2014.
  • 3. Cherian KA. Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Medscape Web site. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1176735-treatment#d11. Updated July 27, 2016. Accessed September 2, 2016.
  • 4. Mayo Clinic Staff. Vagus nerve stimulation. Mayo Clinic Web site. http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/vagus-nerve-stimulation/details/risks/cmc-20167760. Accessed September 12, 2016. 

This Web site contains information relating to various medical conditions and treatment. Such information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice of a physician or other healthcare professionals. You should not use this information for diagnosing a health problem or disease. In order for you to make intelligent healthcare decisions, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare provider for your, or your loved one's, personal medical needs. All quotes included in this Web site represent the individual experience of some doctors, some patients, and their caregivers. Individual responses to treatment may vary.

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