Epilepsy treatment with vagus nerve stimulation

If drugs fail, epilepsy is treated surgically, e. g. , using vagus nerve stimulation. The neurosurgeon installs a particular device that sends electrical impulses at regular intervals (usually 30 seconds every 5 minutes), which, passing through the electrodes and vagus nerve, enter the brain. Unlike other surgical methods, the operation does not affect the internal brain areas. Therefore it is safe and can be carried out for children and adolescents. The device consists of a pulse generator with a small battery (only 5 cm in diameter) and connecting wires with electrodes. The battery life is about 4-5 years and up to 8 years in new-generation devices. The stimulator implantation is performed under general anesthesia and takes about an hour:The neurosurgeon makes two small skin incisions in the left armpit and neck to properly place the generator and electrodes. The stimulator is implanted in the left subclavian region. The electrodes are attached to the neck, where the vagus nerve is located. After the operation, the patient receives a device with which he can cause additional or more intense stimulation at the first signs of an attack. The simulator can also be turned off if, for example, the impulses interfere with the patient in some situations. During the year after surgery, the frequency and intensity of seizures in patients decrease. In addition, the device positively affects the patient's emotional state and has an antidepressant effect.