Vagus nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy in children

1 Guidance

1.1 Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation for refractory epilepsy in children appears adequate to support the use of this procedure, provided that the normal arrangements are in place for consent, audit and clinical governance.

1.2 The procedure should only be undertaken by specialist paediatric epilepsy teams.

1.3 Almost all the current evidence on the efficacy of the procedure relates to reducing seizure frequency only. However the effect on quality of life remains uncertain. Future audit and research should include quality of life measures. Patients, carers and children should be informed about the unpredictability of benefit. Use of the Institute's information for the public is recommended.