Vagal Nerve Stimulator

About the Surgery

What is a Vagal Nerve Stimulator?

Is an adjunctive treatment for epilepsy. An incision is made in the left side of the neck to expose the left vagal nerve. The VNS electrodes are wrapped around the nerve. A second incision is made in the chest wall, allowing the generator to be placed.

Day of the Surgery

Your surgical team will be with you every step of the way
You will be in the ICU after your surgery

After the Surgery

Home Care

Incision Care

Dressing is removed on post-operative day 2
Sutures are not typically used, you will see Dermabond (dissolvable glue) over incisions
Wash incision daily with mild shampoo/soap and water then pat dry (application of antibiotic ointment not necessary unless instructed by Neurosurgery team)
You may scrub incision lightly to help prevent scab formation
Do not use oils, lotions, or creams on incision
Do not scratch incision
No beach/pool ( 1st month after surgery) or until cleared by provider
Avoid direct sunlight on incision

Activity

May not return to school until cleared by neurosurgery
Keep activity level back to normal or light until you are seen in clinic

Pain control

You may alternate the following over the counter medications, which include:
- Acetaminophen every 4 hours
- Ibuprofen every 6 hours as needed (for infants over 6 months)

Follow-up Office Visit

You will be seen in Neurosurgery office approximately 14 days after leaving the hospital for physical evaluation and wound check
Follow up with neurology for management of VNS as indicated