VNS
Medical abbreviation · Neurology
| Stands for | Vagus nerve stimulation |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
VNS stands for Vagus nerve stimulation, a neurology abbreviation.
Therapy in which a generator implanted under the skin of the chest sends regular electrical pulses to the left vagus nerve in the neck through a wire lead. It reduces seizure frequency in drug-resistant epilepsy and is also approved for treatment-resistant depression and stroke rehabilitation.
Example: VNS settings increased to 1.75 mA; seizure frequency down by half over the past year.
Usage notes
The FDA approved VNS for epilepsy in 1997, for depression in 2005, and, as a system paired with rehabilitation exercises, for arm recovery after stroke in 2021. The left vagus nerve is used because the right supplies more fibers to the heart's sinoatrial node. Side effects include hoarseness, cough and voice change during stimulation. Noninvasive handheld devices are used for some headache disorders.
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.