Vagus nerve stimulation for XXXX .

@entity1 @entity410 @entity308 @entity40615 @entity302 @entity158
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neurophysiological treatment for @entity1 with medically or surgically @entity302 . Since the first @entity1 implant in 1989, more than 10,000 @entity1 have been treated with VNS. Two randomized controlled studies have shown a statistically significant decrease in @entity410 frequency during a 12-week treatment period versus a baseline period when 'high stimulation' mode was compared with 'low stimulation' mode. The efficacy appears to increase over time. In general, one third of the @entity1 show a > 50% reduction of @entity410 frequency; one third show a 30-50% @entity410 reduction, and one third of @entity1 show no response. Few @entity1 become @entity410 -free. Side effects during stimulation are mainly voice alteration, coughing, @entity40615 and discomfort. When studied on a long-term basis, VNS is an efficacious, safe and cost-effective treatment not only in adults but also in @entity1 and the elderly. The precise mechanism of action remains to be elucidated. In recent years much progress has been made through neurophysiological, neuroanatomical, neurochemical and cerebral blood flow studies in animals and @entity1 treated with VNS. Further elucidation of the mechanism of action of VNS may increase its clinical efficacy and our general understanding of some physiopathological aspects of @entity302 . Finally, VNS may become an alternative treatment for other conditions such as @entity308 and @entity158 .
