vagal nerve stimulator

Vagal nerve stimulators are an implantable device used to treat a number of conditions although the mechanism of action has not been completely elucidated.

Indications

Vagal nerve stimulators are indicated in patients with :

• intractable epilepsy
  • Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (targeting the afferent tracts)
• treatment-resistant depression
• heart failure

Procedure

The internal pulse generator is typically inserted below the left clavicle and the leads traverse towards the vagus nerve, typically the left, in the lower neck.

Complications

• hoarse voice
• throat pain
• coughing
• shortness of breath
• muscle pain / paresthesias in areas supplied by the vagus nerve

Siehe auch:

• thorakale Implantate / Devices
• Epilepsie
• Lennox-Gastaut-Syndrom

und weiter:

• Nervus vagus
• Neurostimulation