VNS Surgery

Hi Holly, I had the VNS surgery in October, 2005 - so it's been just about 4 1/2 months for me. It's still too early to tell if I will see an improvement in my seizures. At my next appt in March, the VNS will be adjusted again, and I should be at the lower end of the therapeutic range at that time. I have noticed since my last adjustment, that using the magnet sometimes seems to ward off a seizure. That in itself has been good, and given me some sense of control. My surgery was very easy, much easier than I anticipated. I went home about 3 hours after the surgery. the only pain I felt was in my neck, and that was from the way I was positioned during surgery (I have arthritis in my neck, so it wasn't too comfortable). Over the next several days, I had some soreness in my incisions, but nothing severe. They turned my VNS on it's lowest setting during the surgery. The only side effect I have had so far, is a hoarseness in my voice when the unit goes off. this usually only lasts for a few days after each adjustment. However, this last adjustment in January, it has taken longer to get over the hoarseness. I have also noticed that since the last adjustment, using the magnet is a bit more uncomfortable than before. Still not "painful", just not comfortable. I am trying to use the magnet once or twice a day right now, to get more used to the higher setting, as this is what will be the "normal" setting beginning in a few weeks. All in all, so far, I have been happy with my VNS. I am glad I had it done, and remain hopeful that it will end up helping in the long run. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via the e-mail address in my profile, or by posting here. Good luck, & hugs, Barbie *************************************** "We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can fly only by embracing each other." -lucian de crescenzo

I have had the implant for almost 2 years. It has been more positive than negative. I can hardly feel my implant, and my incisions are not noticeable. The implant activates your brain every 5 minutes, most times you don't feel it going up. The International Institute for Epilepsy supervises my progress, and my neurologist is relieved. They are now using this procedure for people w/ other disabilities such as depression, bulimia etc. That makes me happy to know that the procedure is more popular than when I had my surgery. My attitude had definitely improved and my Neurologist states that my implant may also be having a positive effect on my emotions. He enjoyed my new haircut @ my last visit (smile)I don't regret it. I sometimes feel an aura, but no seizure after activating the pacemaker. I actually forget that I have the implant.You receive an ID card especially for travel (cannot go through any sensors) My biggest concern is that the pacemaker's battery has to be replaced every 7 - 10 years. I accept it as just a way of life, and is relieved that there is ongoing research specifically about epilepsy. Cyberonics.com is a good web site to get more info. No regrets