New AAN guidelines on vagus nerve stimulation for treatment of epilepsy address important questions of indication, efficacy, and adverse effects.
Sponsoring Organization: American Academy of NeurologyBackground and Objective
In 1997, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for treatment of partial epilepsy in patients older than 12. An American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Technology Assessment in 1999 concurred with the evidence supporting the indication but also elaborated that VNS use should be directed at patients who are not surgical candidates (Neurology 1999; 53:666).
Based on a review of published data since 1999, this guideline update was aimed at addressing several issues important in clinical practice regarding use of VNS.
Key Points
Evidence was at best Class III to provide information to answer only some of the questions addressed.
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardMore Health, Inc.; The Alliance of Medical Companies
Grant/Research SupportNIH Small Business Innovation Research
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSouthern Epilepsy & EEG Society (Treasurer)
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardMore Health, Inc.; The Alliance of Medical Companies
Grant/Research SupportNIH Small Business Innovation Research
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSouthern Epilepsy & EEG Society (Treasurer)