Practical issues and concepts in vagus nerve stimulation: a nursing review.

Estimates of epilepsy incidence among the U.S. population range between 0.5% and 1%. The most common type of seizure in adult patients is partial onset. Approximately 20% of these patients are refractory to antiepileptic drug therapy and experience intolerable side effects such as confusion, dizziness, weight gain, lethargy, and ataxia. The ketogenic diet appears to be beneficial for children but is not considered a standard option for adults. Epilepsy surgery can be an option for many and may offer control or a reduction in seizures. However, many patients are opposed to cranial surgery or may not tolerate the ketogenic diet. Recent advances in biomedical technology and perfection in surgical techniques have shown vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) using the Neuro Cybernetic Prosthesis (NCP) system is an effective new treatment option in reducing seizure frequency. On July 16, 1997, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the NCP for vagus nerve stimulation, as an adjunctive treatment for refractory partial onset seizures in adults and adolescents over 12 years of age. Murphy et al. and Wheless have reported similar results in children younger than 12 years. VNS represents the first therapy using a medical device approved by the FDA for the treatment of refractory seizures. An estimated 10,000 patients have been implanted with the device.