Episode #18 - VNS: A Small Device Making a Big Difference featuring Dr. Takijah Heard

Download Audio
 
Download Transcript
Share
Subscribe

A Vagus Nerve Stimulator (VNS) is a small device being used to improve the lives of eligible individuals impacted by epilepsy. The versions of the device discussed in this episode are inserted under the skin in an out-patient procedure. The VNS device acts like a pacemaker for the brain administering doses of electricity in an attempt to reduce, lessen the intensity, or eliminate seizures.

Join us as we discuss the VNS device, including patient eligibility, the surgical implant process, and possible side-effects of the device. Dr. Takijah Heard, Division Head of Pediatric Neurology at Northshore Neurological Institute, walks us through these topics and more in this episode of Seizing Life.

Research is key to developing life-saving devices like the VNS. Support vital research aimed at helping the over 30% of patients with epilepsy who do not respond to currently available medication by donating to CURE today.

Download Audio

Want to download this episode? Fill out the form below and enjoy the podcast any time you’d like!

    Back to Episode Download PDF

    VNS: A Small Device Making a Big Difference Transcript

    featured episode
    Previous Episode

    #17 My Condition Isn’t Generic: Why Changes to Insurance Coverage Matter
    featured episode
    Next Episode

    #19 Infantile Spasms: Know the Signs and Take Action

    Related Episodes

    featured episode
    HealthcareLiving with Epilepsy
    May 1, 2024

    #137 Older Adults and Epilepsy: the Causes, the Signs, and the Treatments

     Guest: Dr. Rebecca O'Dwyer

    Dr. Laura O’Dwyer discusses the fastest growing segment of people living with epilepsy, adults over 65 years old. Dr. O’Dwyer provides an overview of the causes of epilepsy in older adults, the subtle signs to look for, and the importance of treatment.

    Watch Now
    featured episode
    HealthcareLiving with Epilepsy
    November 15, 2023

    #129 Epilepsy in Women: Challenges, Concerns, and Considerations

     Guest: Dr. Elizabeth Gerard

    This week on Seizing Life® Dr. Elizabeth Gerard discusses concerns specific to women living with epilepsy. From puberty to menstruation, contraception, pregnancy, and menopause, we explore managing epilepsy through all stages of a woman’s life.

    Watch Now
    featured episode
    HealthcareLiving with Epilepsy
    July 12, 2023

    #120 Comprehensive Epilepsy Centers: An Insider’s Guide

     Guest: Dr. Dave Clarke

    This week on Seizing Life® Dr. Dave Clarke gives us a thorough overview of the specialists and services available at comprehensive epilepsy centers and offers advice about when and how to access these care options.

    Watch Now

    Download audio: VNS: A Small Device Making a Big Difference

    Download Podcast ⇩