VNS for Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
A small study conducted by the Comprehensive Epilespy Center and Division of Neurology at New York Presbyterian Hospital (Weill Medical College of Cornell University) and published in the Journal of Child Neurology, shows that Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) may be an effective and safe adjunctive therapy for people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS).
During the first 6 months of treatment of 13 people with LGS, a median seizure rate reduction of 52% was seen. After another 6 months, 3 persons had a >90% reduction in seizures; 2 had a >75% reduction; 1 had a 50% reduction; and 6 had a reduction of at least 25%. The median rate of seizure reduction was 50%. VNS reduced the rates of all seizure types in the group. After 2 months of treatment, 6 of the participants in the study were able to discontinue the use of at least 1 antiseizure medication.
Unlike traditional therapies for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, VNS presents no serious, harmful side effects.
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