VNS – Vagus Nerve Stimulation

VNS stands for Vagus Nerve Stimulation, a medical treatment that involves using a small device to send mild electrical pulses to the vagus nerve in the neck. This nerve connects the brain to various parts of the body, and the stimulation can help regulate brain activity, in turn helping to relieve symptoms of epilepsy.

VNS is commonly used to treat conditions like epilepsy, when seizures aren’t controlled by medication. The device, often referred to as a “pacemaker for the brain,” is implanted under the skin in the chest and connected to the vagus nerve. This is carried out by what is classed as minor surgery under a general anaesthetic.
Once the VNS is in situ and you have healed, you will be seen by the specialised nurse who will activate the device and find the settings suitable to your needs. From this point, you will remain under the care of a specialised nurse and receive regular appointments to check and amend the settings as required.