Our services | Vagus nerve stimulation | Frequently asked questions about vagus nerve stimulation
Frequently asked questions about vagus nerve stimulation
Q: How long does the battery last for?
A: This is dependent on the stimulator output setting; however as an approximate estimate, the latest units are lasting between 5 and 8 years.
Q: What happens when the battery runs out?
A: Battery replacement involves a short operation, usually under local anaesthesia and usually you will only need to be in hospital for one day.
Q: Will the vagus nerve stimulator be on all day?
A: The vagus nerve stimulator is programmed to run 24 hours per day.
Q: Does vagus nerve stimulation have any side effects?
A: The most common side effect is a tingling in the throat or neck and hoarseness of the voice. This usually lasts only a few days after the stimulator output has been increased.
However some patients continue to feel the stimulator switch on; most find it causes them no distress and some find it reassuring. Other less common side effects that have been reported include occasional shortness of breath, neck and ear pain.
Q: Can I damage the vagus nerve stimulator?
A: The stimulator is not easily damaged, and patients can undertake their normal life, undertaking sport, swimming etc. However in rare circumstances the electrode cable has been broken in severe falls. One patient fractured his cable between the battery and electrode while participating in karate.
Q: Can the vagus nerve stimulator set off security alarms?
A: Very rarely the implanted stimulator may set off a security alarm. When wishing to fly it is advisable to inform airport security that you have a surgical device implanted inside you. We will supply you with a letter confirming this.
Q: Can I fly in an aircraft?
A: Yes. There are no problems about flying; however, inform the airport security that you have an implanted medical device, (see question above). The department can provide you with a letter informing the airport authority that you have an implanted medical device.
Q: Can I go swimming and shower or take a bath?
A: Yes, you can do all of the above.
Q: What is the magnet used for?
A: The magnet has two functions
- By swiping the magnet across the battery unit when you feel an attack approaching, you will give yourself an additional boost of stimulation for up to 60 seconds. This may have the effect of stopping or reducing the intensity of the seizure.
- Holding the magnet across the battery unit and keeping it there, will switch off the vagus nerve stimulator. When you remove the magnet the vagus nerve stimulator will automatically switch back into its programmed mode. This function allows the patient to switch the unit off for a few minutes if needed, for instance if stimulation causes some hoarseness and you wanted to play the flute or sing.
Q: Can I undergo an additional surgical operations?
A: Yes, there are no problems having other types of surgery. However, the surgeon needs to know that you have an implanted electrical device so that he can use the correct form of diathermy. Bipolar diathermy must be used, as unipolar diathermy may electrically short the stimulator.
Q: Can I have an MRI scan with the vagus nerve stimulator implanted?
A: No. Most MRI scanners will damage the vagus nerve stimulator; however a few MRI scanners are able to scan without any problem as long as the device is switched off. It is important that you inform the MRI scanning department that you have a vagus nerve stimulator implanted and if the scan is to be undertaken ensure that the vagus nerve stimulator is switched off.
Q: Can I undergo routine x-rays and CT scanning?
A: Yes, both investigations are safe and will not damage the vagus nerve stimulator.
