VNS Surgery

[odessbuh]

Hey guys, has anyone had a VNS surgery before? I’m getting one in a few days and I’m starting to feel a tad bit nervous.

[monaco1]

Don't worry! A new implant has to adjust to you - just like you must adjust to the VNS! It won't be a 3 month quick fix! Remember - it is not a cure for your epilepsy! It's an add on therapy given when tablets don't work as well as expected! I have had it now for nearly 20 years! It is a slow but gradual benefit! My first year - 5%; 8 years - 30% ; 13 years - 50%; 19 years - 75%! It may work different for each person, but definitely worth trying! Give it a good chance and learn how to adjust and work together with it! It has a job to do; learn how to adjust! I wouldn't be able to live alone without it now!

[odessbuh in reply to monaco1]

Thank you so much for this information and encouragement! I needed this reminder of it not being a cure for my epilepsy.

[EpilepsyAction1 Partner Epilepsy Action]

Hi Odessbuh

It is a worrying time waiting for surgery.

I hope your epilepsy team has explained everything fully to you.

If it will help, we have some information on the VNS that includes what to expect following surgery.

epilepsy.org.uk/info/treatm...

Maybe you could let us know how things go. As sharing experiences can be helpful.

Best wishes

Regards

Diane

Epilepsy Action Helpline Team

[richhood in reply to EpilepsyAction1]

Hi I had my VNS done a long time now and it was updated just over a year ago it hasnt been a complete cure but there have been some great benefits mainly my recovery time and the after effects of the Seizure my memory has improved and i dont have that constant headache. I was only in hospital 1 day when they updated my VNS and had no issue

i hope all goes well for you

Richard

[GillSans]

How did it go?

There may be a bit of post-Op pain, but Paracetamol will be fine.

The device is usually not switched on until your wounds have healed.

You may have a switch-on appointment,

they will start at a very low current to begin with,

gradually increasing over the following months.

It is not a cure, but I've noticed smaller fits and swifter recovery times.

Also my memory is returning, with additional help of brain training games.

That is something for you to look forward to.