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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My neurologist has suggested a VNS implant surgery. During my research I found non invasive VNS devices. Has anyone tried these devices?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Portland, OR
January 27
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Hi @A MyEpilepsyTeam Member. . The DBS ( deep Brain stimulation ) is working very well for me . My seizure have reduced a lot . The VNS didn’t work well for me

January 29
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Wow! It sounds like you have had quite the journey. I hope the DBS is working better for you than the VNS. Thank you for sharing your story.

January 29
MyEpilepsyTeam

Has anyone tried non-invasive VNS devices as an alternative to implanted VNS?

The information available focuses on implanted VNS devices, which are surgically placed under the skin near the collarbone with a wire connecting to the vagus nerve in the neck. These devices send regular electrical signals to help reduce seizure Show Full Answer

Has anyone tried non-invasive VNS devices as an alternative to implanted VNS?

The information available focuses on implanted VNS devices, which are surgically placed under the skin near the collarbone with a wire connecting to the vagus nerve in the neck. These devices send regular electrical signals to help reduce seizure activity.

Research shows that about half of people using implanted VNS experience at least a 50% reduction in seizures, with benefits improving over time. Some people see results within the first year, though it can take up to two years for full effectiveness.

A MyEpilepsyTeam member shared: "My child has had a vagus nerve stimulator for over seven years because of their drop seizures. We swipe them, and the seizures stop." Another member noted: "Since my VNS was inserted 12 years ago (with one battery change two years ago), my seizures have been controlled."

The implanted VNS does require surgery and comes with potential side effects like hoarseness, throat discomfort, or trouble swallowing. It may also affect MRI scans and requires carrying a therapy card through airport security.

While non-invasive VNS devices exist, there isn't information available here about their effectiveness for epilepsy compared to implanted devices. This would be an excellent question to discuss with your neurologist, who can explain why they're recommending the implanted version and whether non-invasive options might work for your specific situation.

January 27
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
I once had a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS). After 4 or 5 years we saw no decrease in my seizures so I opted to get it taken back out. Since then I’ve had the Neurostimulator (RNS) but continue to have seizures.

January 29
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I’ve tried the VNS from 2005 -2010

The DBS in the USA was approveIn in 2018 . By 2022 I had it put it while they took my VNS out at the same time

January 29

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