Vagus nerve stimulation for the management of seizures in children: an 8-year experience

Medication-resistant seizure disorder is a challenging, debilitating, and expensive condition. Although multiple interventions are now available, none is universally effective. In 1997, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) was approved for treatment of refractory seizures in patients older than 12 years. Vagus nerve stimulation has shown some benefit for these individuals, but less is known about its use in patients younger than 12 years. This review analyzes the safety and efficacy of VNS in young children.

From March 2000 to February 2008, patients with medication-resistant seizures were implanted with a neurocybernetic prosthesis. Two weeks later, the device was activated. The children were followed for at least 3 months, and adjustments were made. Retrospective chart review was performed to collect data.

Of 28 patients, the mean age at implantation was 8 years and 5 months. Twenty-one (75%) children were younger than 12 years. There were no surgical complications. Two children were reimplanted for lead malfunction, and 4 generators were replaced. Two children had transitory adverse effects (hoarseness and stridor). Mean follow-up was 3 years and 5 months. At 1 year, 52% of children had greater than 50% reduction in seizures.

Although the effectiveness of VNS is variable and unpredictable, safety is high even in young children. Because of the potential benefit for these complex patients, the implantation of this nerve stimulation device should be included in the armamentarium of pediatric surgeons.