Vagus Nerve Stimulation shows promise for drug-resistant epilepsy

A study presented at the 16th European Epilepsy Congress in Athens has highlighted the effectiveness of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. The research, conducted by Villa Santa Maria in collaboration with the Alessandro Manzoni Hospital, the San Gerardo dei Tintori Foundation, and the University of Padua, examined 73 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy or developmental epileptic encephalopathies.

Results showed that seven patients achieved complete seizure freedom. Notably, three of these patients were able to progressively discontinue all medications while maintaining a seizure-free state through VNS alone. Researchers noted that the benefits of VNS appear to consolidate and increase over the long term, offering a significant therapeutic option for those who do not respond to traditional pharmacological treatments.