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Child's Nervous System

Published in:

01-08-2006 | Special Annual Issue

Vagal nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy in children: indications and experience at The Hospital for Sick Children

Authors: Mony Benifla, James T. Rutka, William Logan, Elizabeth J. Donner

Published in: Child's Nervous System | Issue 8/2006

Abstract

Objectives

The management of intractable epilepsy in children is a challenging problem. For those patients who do not respond to antiepileptic drugs and are not candidates for epilepsy surgery, vagal nerve stimulation (VNS), can be a viable alternative for reducing seizure frequency. We have reviewed the historical and clinical background of VNS treatment. We also include our experience at The Hospital for Sick Children in children who underwent VNS implantation.

Methods

Forty-one children underwent VNS implantation for epilepsy over 6 years. After a mean follow-up of 31 months, 15 (38%) patients had a seizure frequency reduction of more than 90%. Fifteen (38%) children failed to respond to the VNS treatment. The device was removed in five children: in one, due to late infection; the other four could not tolerate the side effects of chronic VNS therapy. Two patients required reimplantation due to electrode failure. The most common side effects in our series were cough and vocal disturbances.

Conclusions

Our results show that VNS implantation can be a safe and effective alternative therapy for children with drug-resistant epilepsy who are not candidates for epilepsy surgery.

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Title: Vagal nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy in children: indications and experience at The Hospital for Sick Children
Authors: Mony Benifla
James T. Rutka
William Logan
Elizabeth J. Donner
Publication date: 01-08-2006
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Child's Nervous System / Issue 8/2006
Print ISSN: 0256-7040
Electronic ISSN: 1433-0350
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-006-0123-6

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Vagal nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy in children: indications and experience at The Hospital for Sick Children

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Conclusions

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