Generator replacement with cardiac-based VNS device in children with drug-resistant epilepsy: An observational study

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the seizure outcomes in children with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), having a pre-existing VNS device, after generator replacement with cardiac-based VNS device. METHODS: This retrospective study enrolled 30 children with DRE from 2 centers with an existing VNS device nearing end-of-service who underwent generator replacement with cardiac-based VNS device and had at least 1 year follow up. Seizure outcomes and adverse effects were studied. RESULTS: The mean age at insertion of cardiac-based VNS device was 15.03 years. 26.7 % patients showed at least one class improvement at last follow up (mean 2.08 years) and half of the patients maintained their McHugh seizure-outcome class. Thirty-six percent of patients had > 50 % seizure reduction at last follow up. Ten patients reported improvement in ictal severity. Most of the patients tolerated the replacement well. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly one-third of patients with DRE showed additional improvement after replacement with cardiac based VNS device. Half of the patients maintained their seizure control.