In this study, researchers surveyed 90 patients with intractable epilepsy who underwent vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). This is the first study to assess both seizure and psychosocial outcomes in this population. The authors found no significant differences in psychosocial metrics before and after VNS implantation. Seizure outcomes were favorable with 68% of patients experience greater than 50% seizure reduction and 20% of patients identifying as seizure-free. The majority of patients surveyed (80%) expressed satisfaction with VNS therapy.
Wasade VS, Schultz L, Mohanarangan K, Gaddam A, Schwalb JM, Spanaki-Varelas M. Long-term seizure and psychosocial outcomes of vagus nerve stimulation for intractable epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav. 2015;53:31-36.
