VNS and DBS for Epilepsy: When to Consider Neurostimulation Devices and What Know

This month's episode of Epilepsy Explained focuses on two neuromodulation devices, Vagus Nerve Stimulation, or VNS, and Deep Brain Stimulation, or DBS. Dr. Taylor Abel, Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children's Hospital, answers basic questions about how these devices are used to reduce or control seizures in some people with epilepsy. In this episode, Dr. Abel answers the following questions. 0:00 Opening Title 0:16 What are VNS and DBS and how do they differ from each other? 1:14 Who should consider getting a VNS or DBS device? 2:38 Are there any risks involved with having a VNS or DBS device implanted? 4:04 Are there any potential side effects that people with a VNS or DBS might experience? 5:20 Do these devices require any regular maintenance? 6:54 When and how will I know if the device is making a difference in my seizures? Look for new episodes of Epilepsy Explained on the third Wednesday of every month here on CURE Epilepsy’s YouTube Channel and on our website at: https://www.cureepilepsy.org/epilepsy... If you would like to submit questions for future episodes of Epilepsy Explained, please go to: https://www.cureepilepsy.org/epilepsy... ABOUT CURE EPILEPSY CURE Epilepsy is the leading, non-governmental funder of epilepsy research. Since its inception in 1998, CURE Epilepsy has raised more than $90 million to fund epilepsy research and other initiatives that will lead the way to cures for the epilepsies. CURE Epilepsy funds grants for young and established investigators and to–date has awarded more than 285 cutting-edge projects in 18 countries around the world. Our mission is to find a cure for epilepsy, by promoting and funding patient-focused research. LEARN MORE ABOUT EPILEPSY Visit the “Understanding Epilepsy” section of CURE Epilepsy’s website: https://www.cureepilepsy.org/for-pati... STAY CONNECTED WITH CURE EPILEPSY Sign up for our newsletter for the latest in epilepsy research news: https://www.cureepilepsy.org/subscribe/ Follow us on Facebook:   / cureforepilepsy   Follow us on Twitter:   / cureepilepsy   Follow us on Instagram:   / cureepilepsy   INCREASE YOUR IMPACT Share your story: https://www.cureepilepsy.org/personal... Help us find a cure: https://www.cureepilepsy.org/get-invo...