Vagus Nerve Stimulator Therapy for Epilepsy
Medically reviewed by: Amy W. Anzilotti, MD
What Is Vagus Nerve Stimulator Therapy?
Vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) therapy is a treatment for epilepsy. The vagus (VAY-gus) nerve runs up the sides of the neck and into the brain. The VNS sends electrical pulses to the nerve, which carries the pulses to the brain. This helps prevent or shorten the length of seizures.
What Are the Benefits of VNS Therapy?
When used along with medicine, VNS therapy can:
- help kids have fewer seizures
- make seizures that do happen less severe
- stop a seizure that has started
Managing seizures gives a child a better sense of control over their condition. Many parents report that their child is happier, less anxious, more alert, and feels better overall with VNS therapy.
Children are also less likely to need to go to the hospital for their seizures and may be able to take fewer medicines.
Who Can Get VNS Therapy?
Vagus nerve stimulator therapy works best in children who are at least 4 years old, and:
- have partial (focal) seizures
- take medicines for epilepsy, but haven’t had an improvement