Long-Term Outcome of Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy in Young Children with Intractable Epilepsy

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is approved by FDA for treatment of intractable epilepsy in children over 12 years of age. We assessed the efficacy of VNS therapy in younger children. The study was a retrospective review of the medical records of medically refractory epilepsy patients under 12 years old at VNS implantation. Out of 42 patients studied, 28 had at least 50% decrease in seizure frequency, one-half of patients had 75% decrease in seizures, and 7% became seizure-free. A total 69% of patients reported improved mood and alertness. Complication rate was 7%. Age at VNS implantation, prior duration of epilepsy, electroencelphographic focality, and etiology of epilepsy did not influence the outcome (p > 0.05). Our cohort demonstrated a lasting benefit of VNS therapy over 5 years, including seizure reduction and improved mood and alertness. VNS is a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for young children with medically intractable epilepsy.