Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a treatment that uses a small implanted device to send gentle electrical signals through the vagus nerve to help reduce seizures.
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Epilepsy & Seizures Program
We have decades of experience caring for patients with Epilepsy, pioneering minimally invasive treatments and leading research for new treatments to improve patient outcomes.
What Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)?
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a treatment that uses a small device placed under the skin in the chest. The device is connected to a wire that stimulates the vagus nerve in the neck. The vagus nerve carries signals between the brain and the body.
VNS is most often used for people with epilepsy whose seizures are not well controlled with medicine alone. It does not usually cure epilepsy, but it may help reduce how often seizures happen and, for some people, how severe they are.
Why Choose Baptist Health?
At Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care, patients benefit from coordinated care focused on complex neurological conditions, including epilepsy and seizures. Care planning may involve physicians from different specialties who work together to understand symptoms, review testing and recommend treatment options based on each patient’s needs.
For patients considering VNS, experts at Baptist Health can help guide next steps, from diagnosis and medication review to discussion of device-based treatment options. When appropriate, patients may also need evaluation for related care such as drug-resistant epilepsy or anti-seizure medication management.
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Our Epilepsy & Seizures program connects patients with expert care at Baptist Health Kenneth C. Griffin Neuroscience Institute and Marcus Neuroscience Institute.
Frequently Asked Questions
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VNS is most commonly used to help manage certain seizure disorders, especially when seizures are not fully controlled with medication alone. A physician will determine whether it fits your diagnosis and treatment history.
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No. VNS is not usually considered a cure. It is a treatment that may help reduce seizure frequency or severity for some patients, but results vary from person to person.
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People with seizures that continue despite medication may be evaluated for VNS. Candidacy depends on seizure type, prior treatment response, overall health and whether other options may be more appropriate.
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No. VNS involves placing a device in the chest and connecting it to the vagus nerve in the neck. It does not require surgery on the brain.
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Many patients still take anti-seizure medication after VNS placement. Over time, a physician may review whether treatment changes are appropriate, but medication decisions are individualized.
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Some people notice hoarseness, throat discomfort, coughing or voice changes when the device stimulates the nerve. Surgical risks, such as infection or discomfort at the implant site, are also possible.
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Improvement may not happen right away. The device is typically adjusted during follow-up visits, and benefits may become clearer over time as settings are refined.
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Yes. The device settings can usually be changed during follow-up visits. This helps the care team tailor treatment to seizure control and side effects.
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