Vagal Nerve Stimulators

Signs and Symptoms

Children who lose consciousness either during complex partial seizures or generalized seizures, and whose seizures are not being controlled by medication, may benefit from vagal nerve stimulation. This treatment can result in fewer or less severe seizures, although not all children see improvement. In all cases, however, children need to continue to take anti-epileptic medication as they did before the stimulator was inserted. In some cases, your neurologist may recommend that the use of medication be reduced a few months after vagal nerve stimulation has begun.

Vagal nerve stimulation is suggested for children whose seizures are not controlled by medication. The procedure is performed on children as young as age 4. This procedure is not used on children with severe asthma or severe heart disease, particularly those with an irregular heartbeat.

Diagnosis

At UCSF Children's Hospital, our team of doctors and other medical professionals will thoroughly evaluate your child's medical condition. Our staff will ask you about your child's medical history as well as of your immediate family. If your pediatrician has sent us your child's previous medical records, we will review this information. Be sure to tell your doctors about any medications your child is currently using, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements or herbal remedies.

Your neurologist will first confirm the diagnosis of epilepsy or other disorder-causing seizures. Your neurologist also will confirm that the seizures are controlled and that other efforts already have been pursued to control the seizures.

Your child's evaluation may include imaging techniques such as ultrasonography, computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment

The vagal nerve stimulator is surgically inserted during an operation lasting an hour or two. A cable is inserted to connect the stimulator with the nerve in the neck. The stimulator is programmed to stimulate the nerve at regular intervals. About every 10 years, the battery in the stimulator should be replaced. This can be done during a simple procedure, which doesn't require a hospital stay, using local anesthesia.

Many patients may experience some tingling in the neck or hoarseness during the stimulation pulses. Most patients get used to these feelings over time.

Your neurosurgery team at UCSF Children's Hospital, along with your primary care physician, will design a treatment plan tailored to your child's medical condition, state of health and individual needs. Don't be afraid to ask your doctors, nurses or therapists about the treatments your child receives. Your neurologist will explain any possible risks or complications from the treatment.