Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS)
Vagus Nerve Stimulator (VNS), is an innovative approach using electrical stimulation of a nerve in the neck.
The vagus nerve is a large nerve with many connections to the brain. By stimulating this nerve, the
frequency and intensity of seizures can be reduced.
To stimulate the nerve, a small device is implanted under the skin of the patient’s chest and attached to the vagus nerve with electrodes. The device is programmed to stimulate the nerve. (The nerve can also be stimulated by using a magnet.)
VNS therapy is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).