7. VNS: WHAT IS IT?
• “Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS
Therapy®) is designed to prevent
seizures by sending regular, mild
pulses of electrical energy to the brain
via the vagus nerve. These pulses are
supplied by a device something like a
pacemaker” (Epilepsy.com, 2016).
Courtesy of Cyberonics
9. Patients who have failed
several medication trials in
succession
Patients who ARE
controlled, but on such high
doses, the side effects are
intolerable
Patients who are not a
candidate for surgery.
INDICATIONS CONTRA-
INDICATIONS
Not for use in pt.’s with
bilateral or left cervical
vagotomies
Those with pre-existing
cardiac, respiratory or
swallowing issues
Safety has not been
established in pregnancy.
Do NOT use short wave, microwave, or therapeutic U/S diathermy!
Patient’s smoke may have increased laryngeal irritation!
NO MRI’s!
