The vagus nerve is the longest of the cranial nerves that carry impulses to and from the brain. It starts at the base of the brain and continues through the neck and chest to the abdomen. You have two vagus nerves, one on each side of the body.
Overview
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) uses a small, implantable device, similar to a pacemaker, to send gentle electrical pulses to the vagus nerve in your neck. These pulses then travel to key areas of the brain that influence mood, movement, and seizure activity, helping to regulate brain function and support recovery.
VNS therapy is clinically proven to reduce the frequency of seizures, improve symptoms of treatment-resistant depression and enhance motor recovery after stroke.
To learn more about M Health Fairview's VNS treatment for stroke recovery patients, click below:
Our approach
At M Health Fairview, we offer VNS treatment for three primary conditions: epilepsy, treatment-resistant depression, and stroke rehabilitation. Our expert care team works closely with patients to determine if VNS is the right fit and guide them through every step of the process.
VNS therapy involves implanting a small pulse generator in your chest near your collarbone. A lead wire is guided under the skin and attached to the left vagus nerve through a second small incision in the neck. The pulse generator sends signals to the vagus nerve, which then travel to key areas of the brain. The procedure is typically same-day surgery.
A few weeks after surgery, your care provider activates the device and adjusts the pulse settings to meet your specific needs. Most patients do not feel the stimulation, though some may notice mild throat sensations or voice changes. You will need to visit your doctor periodically to make sure your device is working properly.
Goals of VNS therapy:
- Epilepsy: Reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of seizures. VNS is used alongside medications and other treatments, not as a replacement.
- Depression: Support mood regulation in individuals who haven’t responded to traditional therapies.
- Stroke Recovery: Enhance neuroplasticity and improve arm and hand function when paired with rehabilitation exercises.
While results vary, many patients begin to notice improvement within a few months, with continued progress over time.
Whether you're seeking options for hard-to-treat epilepsy, exploring alternatives for depression that hasn’t responded to medication, or looking to regain arm and hand function after a stroke, our team is here to guide you through every step of the VNS journey, from evaluation to implantation and ongoing care.
