goglze.blogg.se - Stimulator

#Stimulator generator#
#Stimulator software#

The strength and duration of the electrical impulses are programmed.

#Stimulator software#

The treating neurologist programs the stimulator in his or her office with a small hand-held computer, programming software and a programming wand (Programming Wand, Figure 3). The stimulator is most commonly activated two to four weeks after implantation, although in some cases it may be activated in the operating room at the time of implantation. When the battery is low, the stimulator is replaced with a less invasive procedure which requires only opening the chest wall incision. The stimulator contains a battery, which can last from one to 15 years. The device or implant is a flat, round piece of metal that measures about an inch and a half (4 centimeters) across and 10-13 mm thick, depending on the model used (Pulse Generator, Figure 1).

#Stimulator generator#

This is where the thin, flexible wires that connect the pulse generator to the vagus nerve are inserted (Lead, Figure 2). A second incision is made horizontally on the left side of the lower neck, along a crease of skin. The first one is made on the upper left side of the chest where the pulse generator is implanted (Pulse Generator, Figure 1). The procedure requires two small incisions. Other surgical risks of VNS include inflammation or pain at the incision site, damage to nearby nerves and nerve constriction. As with all surgeries, there is a small risk of infection.

It is usually performed on an outpatient basis. This procedure, performed by a neurosurgeon, usually takes about 45-90 minutes with the patient most commonly under general anesthesia.

Lung diseases or disorders (shortness of breath, asthma, etc.).

Dysautonomias (abnormal functioning of the autonomic nervous system).

Heart arrhythmias or other heart abnormalities.

Receiving other concurrent forms of brain stimulation.

Individuals with any of the following criteria may potentially be unsuitable candidates for VNS: It is important to keep in mind that VNS is a treatment option limited to select individuals with epilepsy or treatment-resistant depression. There is no physical involvement of the brain in this surgery and patients cannot generally feel the pulses. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) sends regular, mild pulses of electrical energy to the brain via the vagus nerve, through a device that is similar to a pacemaker. It is connected to both motor and sensory functions in the sinuses and esophagus. It is connected to motor functions in the voice box, diaphragm, stomach and heart and sensory functions in the ears and tongue. The nerve passes through the neck as it travels between the chest and abdomen and the lower part of the brain. The vagus nerve is one of 12 pairs of cranial nerves that originate in the brain and is part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary body functions. Vagus Nerve Stimulation | American Association of Neurological Surgeons