Vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of epilepsy: things to note on the protocols, the effects and the mechanisms of action

Abstract

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that is characterized by repetitive un-triggered seizures that occur severally within 24 h or more. Non-pharmacological methods for the management of epilepsy were discussed. The non-pharmacological methods include the vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) which is subdivided into invasive and non-invasive techniques. For the non-invasive techniques, the auricular VNS, stimulation of the cervical branch of vagus nerve in the neck, manual massage of the neck, and respiratory vagal nerve stimulation were discussed. Similarly, the stimulation parameters used and the mechanisms of actions through which VNS improves seizures were also discussed. Use of VNS to reduce seizure frequency has come a long way. However, considering the cost and side effects of the invasive method, non-invasive techniques should be given a renewed attention. In particular, respiratory vagal nerve stimulation should be considered. In doing this, the patients should for instance carry out slow-deep breathing exercise 6 to 8 times every 3 h during the waking hours. Slow-deep breathing can be carried out by the patients on their own; therefore this can serve as a form of self-management. HIGHLIGHTS Epilepsy can interfere with the patients’ ability to carry out their daily activities and ultimately affect their quality of life. Medications are used to manage epilepsy; but they often have their serious side effects. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is gaining ground especially in the management of refractory epilepsy. The VNS is administered through either the invasive or the non-invasive methods The invasive method of VNS like the medication has potential side effects, and can be costly. The non-invasive method includes auricular VNS, stimulation of the neck muscles and skin and respiratory vagal nerve stimulation via slow-deep breathing exercises. The respiratory vagal nerve stimulation via slow-deep breathing exercises seems easy to administer even by the patients themselves. Consequently, it is our opinion that patients with epilepsy be made to carry out slow-deep breathing exercise 6–8 times every 3 h during the waking hours.