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O18: Vague Nerve Stimulation
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Nasser Zangiabadi *   |
| Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran , N.zangiabadi@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (3026 Views) |
VNS indications
Epilepsy
VNS Therapy system is indicated for use as an adjunctive therapy in reducing the frequency of seizures in patients whose epileptic disorder is dominated by partial seizures (with or without secondary generalization) or generalized seizures that are refractory to antiepileptic medications.
Depression
VNS Therapy is indicated for the adjunctive long-term treatment of chronic or recurrent depression who are experiencing a major depressive episode and have not had an adequate response to four or more antidepressant treatments.
Mechanism of action
VNS definitely exerts an effect via the LC (norepinephrine) and the RN (serotonin)
These mechanisms of action are similar to those of medications through pharmacologic pathways
The LC and RN/DRN have been conclusively identified as:
- Brain centers affected by VNS Therapy
- Playing a role in suppressing seizures
- Areas that must be intact for VNS Therapy to have an effect
VNS Safety Profile
More than 70,000 patients worldwide have been implanted with VNS Therapy
No known interactions with medications
No reported systemic neurotoxic effects, rash, renal impairment, or bone marrow suppression
No increase in sudden, unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP)1
Gestational outcomes
Animal study has shown no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to VNS Therapy2,3
Pregnancies have gone to term with VNS4,5
One of my challenging Cases which resulted in Vague Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy
53-year-old Right-handed gentleman with History of epilepsy since 1983 (due to being injured during war) in form of CPS and GTCs.
We implanted VNS for the first time in Khatam-Al-Anbia hospital about three months ago for this patient.
The frequency of the patient’s attacks has been decreased to about eighty percent till now.
No significant side effects have been reported except for mild hoarseness.
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| Keywords: VNS Therapy, Epilepsy, Systemic Neurotoxic Effects |
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Full-Text [PDF 239 kb]
(638 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Review --- Open Access, CC-BY-NC |
Subject:
Basic research in Neuroscience
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