Vagus nerve stimulation may be a sound therapeutic option in the treatment of refractory epilepsy

Abstract

Introduction: Refractory epilepsy accounts for 20 to 30% of epilepsy cases and remains a challenge for neurologists. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an option for palliative treatment. Objective: It was to study the efficacy and tolerability of VNS in patients implanted with a stimulator at the Curitiba Institute of Neurology (INC). Methods: A case study of six patients with refractory epilepsy submitted to a VNS procedure at the INC in the last four years was described and discussed. Results: Mean age at time of implantation was 29 years. Mean follow-up was 26.6 months. Seizure frequency decreased in all patients (40-50% (n=2) and ≥80% (n=4)). Three patients no longer required frequent hospitalizations. Two patients previously restricted to wheelchairs started to walk, probably because of improved mood. Conclusion: In this population, VNS proved to be a sound therapeutic option for treating refractory epilepsy.