Anesthetic Experience of Vagus Nerve Stimulator Insertion for Intractable Epilepsy Patients: 18 Cases : A case report

ABSTRACT

Vagal nerve stimulation is an important therapy for medically refractory epilepsy and major depression. Additionally, it may prove effective in treating obesity, Alzheimer's disease, and some neuropsychiatic disorders. As the number of approved indications increases, more patients are becoming eligible for surgical placement of a vagal nerve stimulator. Vagus nerve stimulator placement typically requires general anesthesia, and patients with previously implanted devices may present for other surgical procedures requiring anesthetic management. We have experienced anesthesia for 18 patients, which will be considered to help in anesthesia for vagus nerve stimulator in the future.