Publication
Title
Vagus nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy : a transatlantic experience
Author
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an alternative treatment for medically or surgically refractory epilepsy. The long-term efficacy and safety of VNS were evaluated in a large patient series at Ghent University Hospital and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Between March 1995 and February 2003, seizure frequency and type as well as prescribed antiepileptic drugs and side effects were prospectively assessed in 131 patients treated with VNS in either center. Patients with a minimum follow-up duration of 6 months were included in the efficacy and safety analysis. A total of 118 of 131 implanted patients had a minimum postimplantation follow-up period of 6 months (mean, 33 months). The mean age of these patients was 32 years and the mean duration of refractory epilepsy was 22 years. The mean reduction in monthly seizure frequency in all patients was 55% (range, 0-100; SD = 31.6). Seven percent of patients were free of seizures with impaired consciousness. 50% of patients had a seizure frequency reduction of more than 50%, and 21% of patients were nonresponders. Fifteen patients reported stimulation-related side effects Such as hoarseness or gagging. In a large patient series front two geographically distinct epilepsy centers located in two different continents, VNS proved to be efficacious and safe during long-term follow-up.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Journal of clinical neurophysiology. - New York
Publication
New York : 2004
ISSN
0736-0258
DOI
10.1097/01.WNP.0000139654.32974.4E
Volume/pages
21 :4 (2004) , p. 283-289
ISI
000224906500006
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Publication type
Subject
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 11.03.2013
Last edited 24.02.2023
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