Impact of vagal nerve stimulation on quality of life in drug-resistant epilepsy

Abstract

Background and objective. Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) represents an alternative therapy for intractable epilepsy. The aim of this study is to analyse seizure reduction and the life quality of these patients. Material and methods. We prospectively examined 28 adult patients treated with VNS that were followed-up at least 6 months after the surgery and we recorded the number of seizures and any other changes. 16 epilepsy patients completed the Quality of Life in Epilepsy-31 questionnaire (QOLIE-31). Results. Our data revealed that 64% of patients were responders with more than 50% seizure reduction. According to McHugh classification of seizure freedom, 36% patients are in class I (80-100% seizure reduction), 29% class II (50-79% reduction), 21% class III (less than 50% reduction), 7% class IV (magnet benefit only) and 7% class V (no improvement). Only 8 patients presented mild adverse effects, such as hoarseness, fatigue and cough. Life quality has improved for 68% patients. There is a strong correlation between life quality and health and a mild positive relation with the seizure reduction. Conclusions. VNS improves life quality for more than half of patients and is a therapy to consider in refractory epilepsy.