Cyberonics (VNS Therapy)
What is VNS Therapy?
VNS is an implanted, pacemaker-like device. The electrical stimulation from the pacemaker sends a message through the left vagus nerve into the brain, and that signal somehow seems to interfere with the formation of epileptic seizures. A seizure is caused by a sudden burst of excess electrical activity in the brain, causing a temporary disruption in the normal message passing between brain cells.
During surgery, the device is placed through an incision just under the collarbone, or sometimes just in front of the armpit, and that’s attached to a wire which is tunneled under the skin and placed through an incision in the neck onto the nerve on the left side.
VNS Therapy is indicated and has been approved in many countries as an adjunctive therapy, i.e. for use together with another therapy, usually medication.
A wand and computer are used to read and adapt the settings of the device. (Please see picture below) The procedure is painless and can even be done through the clothes.
During stimulation, minor side effects might appear such as itching, a tickling sensation in the throat, hoarseness, and difficulty to swallow.
When a seizure is felt coming on the VNS Therapy magnet (see below picture) can be swiped to block it.
What results can you expect with VNS Therapy?
The efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation can only be expected after a few weeks, up to many months.
In clinical research, VNS Therapy has been proven to reduce seizures by half in more than 40% of patients over time.
The best results were achieved in terms of improvement in the Quality of Life Benefits are shown such as increased energy, improved relationships with friends and family members, and better ability to function at work and in daily activities.
Who needs VNS?
- People who have failed to adequately respond to several 3 or more anti-epileptic drugs are considered to have difficult-to-treat epilepsy. Worldwide, approximately one out of three people with epilepsy suffer from difficult-to-treat epilepsy.
- VNS Therapy is indicated for use as an adjunctive long-term treatment of chronic or recurrent depression for patients 18 years of age or older who are experiencing a major depressive episode and have not had an adequate response to four or more adequate antidepressant treatments.
Product Range and Accessories:
VNS 102 Model
An implantable, programmable signal generator, which delivers a precise pattern of stimulation to the left vagus nerve.
VNS 103 Model
VNS Demipulse Model 104
The Wand (left) and software with hand-held computer (right): User-friendly computer and software program which can interrogate the pulse generator and modify the stored stimulation parameters.
The watch-style magnet attaches to your wrist with a wristband. The pager-style magnet attaches to a belt, much as a pager, and has quick-release mechanism.
If you have any more questions, you can visit the VNS Therapy website at www.vnstherapy.com