Implantation

General characteristics of the surgical implantation of the VNS Therapy™ System

Takes approximately 1 hour (generally performed on an outpatient basis)

Does not directly involve the brain

Has been performed by surgeons with a variety of specializations

Has been used to treat more than 30,000 epilepsy patients worldwide

Typically performed under general anesthesia

Physicians who implant the VNS Therapy System should be:

• Experienced performing surgery in the carotid sheath,
• Familiar with vagal anatomy, particularly the cardiac branches, and

Prior to implanting the VNS Therapy™ System, surgeons should be thoroughly familiar with all training materials including:

• Product labeling for ALL VNS Therapy components (Physician’s Manuals)
• “Implant Guide for the VNS Therapy System” training manual contained with the Technical Guide
• Videotape on the proper implantation technique: “Implantation of the VNS Therapy System”
• Electrode practice fixture—a device used to practice placing the lead coils around a simulated left vagus nerve.

Click here to request Surgical Training Materials